Local Dolly Parton Imagination Library suspending operations

“We know that a lot of homes don’t have books in them and we know when children are exposed to early literature and early books it really helps with brain development, it helps with social emotional development,” she says.

“If we think back to that feeling of being read to as a child – especially post-pandemic and we have a problem right now with disconnection and we’re trying to encourage connection – that feeling of connection between families between kids between family members it helps bring us back together.”

The program runs solely on community volunteers and local donors that help cover reduced book and shipping rates.

The national organization recommends a community of this size have two years of funding in reserves, about $80,000.

The local group is far short of that despite generous donations from individuals and organizations that Gilbert says have made a world of difference.

In the meantime local organizers are encouraging people to check out the children’s library at the Medicine Hat Public Library. Library cards are currently free and sponsored at the moment by Elizabeth McNally Real Estate Collective.

For more information visit imaginationlibrary.com.

by Chris Brown

Local Dolly Parton Imagination Library suspending operations

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