The Dolly Parton Imagination Library is in the Max School District, which includes the communities of Max, Benedict, Douglas, Ryder, and Ruso. The Imagination Library is an early literacy program created by Dolly Parton in 1995 to provide free books to preschool age children. Each month, from birth until his or her 5th birthday, each enrolled child receives an age-appropriate book in the mail. The books are selected by a national panel of early childhood specialists.
One of the most important things parents can do to help develop early literacy skills is to read with their children. Learning to read is a process that begins at birth much like learning to speak or learning to walk. Children must learn how a book works—reading left to right and turning pages. They learn to associate pictures with words and letters with sounds. These are all steps along the way to learning to read.
The cost of the program is approximately $25 per child per year ($2 per book). We have received funding through United Way, McLean Mercer Regional Library, GAIA, Max Over 55 Club, and individual community members. We are looking for additional financial support to continue the growing Imagination Library.
100% of funds received go directly toward the cost of mailing books to children in the surrounding communities that live within the Max Public School District. Donations of any amount are appreciated.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Mary Roller at 679-2685 or Amy Hauf at 679-2263.
Max Community Library 