The Mesa County Imagination Library, run by United Way of Mesa County in partnership with the Dollywood Foundation, is a transformative initiative dedicated to nurturing a love for reading among young children in our community. The MCIL aims to foster early literacy skills, promote school readiness, and inspire a lifelong passion for learning.
Founded on the principles championed by Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, Mesa County’s version follows a similar model. The program mails high-quality books to all children registered for the program in Mesa County ages birth- five years old. Book selection is determined by an expert panel in early childhood literacy for content that is informative, age-appropriate, and inspiring. By doing so, it not only encourages parent-child bonding through reading but also ensures that every child has access to a personal library that grows over time.
One of the key strengths of the MCIL is its inclusivity. This program is open to all children in Mesa County ages birth to 5 years old, regardless of their family’s socio-economic status. This inclusiveness plays a crucial role in bridging educational gaps that may arise from disparities in access to resources. By providing books to children at no cost, this initiative provides each child an opportunity to develop strong literacy skills from an early age.
The success of the Mesa County Imagination Library can be measured not only in the number of books distributed but also in the positive outcomes it generates. Childhood literacy is a major issue facing Mesa County and evidence has shown that the Imagination Library program delivers results. Research consistently shows that children who have access to books at home and are read to regularly perform better academically. By promoting early literacy, the initiative becomes a proactive investment in Mesa County’s future, as these children are more likely to excel in school and beyond. 75% of parents in Grand Junction said they were reading more with their child since enrolling. 99% of parents said their child’s literacy is being positively impacted by the Imagination Library program. This shared reading experience strengthens family bonds and becomes an integral part of daily life. United Way of Mesa County is proud to have 3,600 children currently enrolled in the program. Since November 2022 UWMC has mailed out over 46,000 books. The goal is to increase this number and get all children ages birth to 5 years old enrolled in the program.
Community support plays a crucial role in sustaining the Mesa County Imagination Library. Local businesses, organizations, and individuals contribute to the program through donations and sponsorships, ensuring that the initiative remains a beacon of educational opportunity for the community. This collaborative effort demonstrates the power of a united community working towards a common goal- improving childhood literacy in Mesa County.
The Mesa County Imagination Library stands as a testament to the belief that every child deserves the chance to dream, learn, and grow through the magic of books. By providing a valuable resource to families, promoting early literacy, and fostering community engagement, this initiative is not only building a foundation for academic success but also shaping a community that cherishes the boundless possibilities that come with a child’s imagination. As the pages of each book turn, so does the promise of a brighter future for Mesa County.
Email impact@uwmesacounty.org or call 970.243.5364 to sign up today.
By providing books to children at no cost, this initiative provides each child an opportunity to develop strong literacy skills from an early age.
