Renewed interest in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library following her death has led to a recent jump in enrollment in the program serving children in Martinsville and Henry County.
The local affiliate, operated by MHC Partners for Children, currently has 2,297 children enrolled, according to Erica James, the organization’s early literacy coordinator.
The Imagination Library provides children from birth through age 5 with a free book each month, regardless of household income.
Inspired by her father and her own love of reading, Parton established the Imagination Library in her hometown of Sevier County, Tennessee, with the goal of encouraging children to develop a lifelong love of reading.
In Martinsville and Henry County, the program provides families with access to books and supports early childhood literacy and school readiness.
The program has operated locally since October 2014, and more than 8,000 area children have been registered over the past 12 years.
Following Parton’s death Aug. 25, James has observed a significant increase in registrations for the local program.
The renewed interest also has prompted individual donations to United Way of Henry County and Martinsville specifically to support the local Imagination Library affiliate.
The cost to support one child for a year is $31, which covers the cost of books and mailing.
Donations may be made through United Way of Henry County and Martinsville, by mailing a check to P.O. Box 951, Martinsville, VA 24114, or in person during business hours, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For more information about the program or to register a child by phone, contact Erica James, early literacy coordinator, at 276-638-3946, ext. 113.
