Unlocking the Power of Early Literacy: Dolly Parton's Imagination Library Expands Reach in East Texas

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Greater Longview United Way has joined forces with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library to expand access to early childhood literacy in East Texas. This partnership aims to combat the region's low literacy rates and empower young minds through the power of reading.

Inspiring a Lifelong Love of Reading, One Book at a Time

Bringing the Gift of Reading to Gregg County

The Greater Longview United Way has taken on the role of an affiliate, providing free books to children under the age of five in Gregg County. This partnership with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, which began two years ago, has already made a significant impact. "We've seen a tremendous growth in the first two years of the program," says Evan Dolive, the Executive Director for Greater Longview United Way. "Now that we're in October, we just crossed 40,000 books that we've been able to give away through Imagination Library."The initiative has given the opportunity for nearly 2,300 children to be enrolled, and almost 700 graduates have already benefited from the program. "I get a lot of emails from parents just thanking us for bringing the program here," Dolive shares. "We love having that feedback from our parents and our caregivers, who see the tremendous value that we're providing by doing Imagination Library."

Combating Low Literacy Rates in Texas

The affiliation with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library aims to address a pressing issue in Texas, where 75% of children are not read to daily, and 15,000 homes in Gregg County have fewer than 10 books. By providing free, high-quality literature to young children, the program emphasizes the importance of reading for early child development, especially in the context of increased technology use."I think in an age where we have access to more technology than ever before, taking time to read and have high quality literature in the home is vitally important," says Dolive. The initiative recognizes the transformative power of reading, as it can foster a lifelong love for learning and personal growth.

Witnessing the Transformative Impact

The program's impact is evident in the stories shared by parents like Cadie from Longview. "Every day, our little girl asks if her book is in the mail," she says. "She wants to check the mail and thinks that a book's going to come every single day." Cadie has witnessed firsthand the remarkable progress her child has made, from making animal sounds and learning the names of animals to actively engaging with the books and wanting to finish the sentences."I've really seen them grow," Cadie reflects. "They start making animal sounds and learning the names of animals, and then they start wanting to finish the sentences in the book. I love watching their little brains learn all the things as they continue to grow."The Imagination Library program's emphasis on early childhood literacy is a testament to the belief that reading can unlock a world of possibilities for young minds. By providing free books and fostering a love for reading, the Greater Longview United Way and Dolly Parton's Imagination Library are making a lasting impact on the lives of children in East Texas.