Cumberland County Imagination Library

The Cumberland County Imagination Library is a local branch of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, operating in Cumberland County, Tennessee. This organization is part of a broader initiative to promote early literacy by providing free, age-appropriate books to preschool children. The Cumberland County Imagination Library partners with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, the Governor's Early Literacy Foundation, and other sponsors to ensure that every child from birth to age five in the county receives a book each month at no cost to families.

Background

Dolly Parton's Imagination Library was launched in 1995 to foster a love of reading among preschool children by providing them with free books. The program was initially started in Dolly Parton's home county in East Tennessee and has since expanded to cover all of Tennessee and other countries.

Mission

The mission of the Cumberland County Imagination Library is aligned with that of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library: to inspire a love of reading by gifting books to children from birth to age five. This initiative aims to ensure that every child has access to quality books, regardless of their family's income level, thereby promoting early literacy and a lifelong love of learning.

Eligibility and Participation

Eligibility for the program is limited to preschool children residing in Cumberland County. Parents or guardians must register their child and notify the organization of any address changes to ensure continued delivery of books. The program encourages families to read the books together, fostering a family environment that values literacy.

Impact

By providing free books to young children, the Cumberland County Imagination Library contributes significantly to the early educational development of its community. This initiative not only enhances literacy skills but also helps build a strong foundation for future academic success.

Financial and Operational Structure

The Cumberland County Imagination Library operates under the parent organization's structure, relying on funding from local partners and sponsors, including United Way of Cumberland County and state-level support from the Governor's Early Literacy Foundation. This funding model ensures that the program remains free for participating families.

In summary, the Cumberland County Imagination Library plays a vital role in supporting early childhood education in Cumberland County through the provision of free books, aligning with Dolly Parton's broader vision of nurturing a love of reading in young children.