Community Corner
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Launches in Wharton
WHARTON, N.J. – Beginning Saturday, May 7, 2011, Wharton preschool children will have the opportunity to receive a free book every month through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. United Way of Northern New Jersey and the Wharton Public Library are partnering with the Grammy award-winning singer’s program to bring free books to local children.
“United Ways across the nation are focused on improving early childhood literacy to prepare children for success in school and life,” said Kathy Kwasnik, Education Community Impact Manager at United Way of Northern New Jersey’s Morris County office. “By partnering with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and the greater Wharton community, we can ensure Morris County children have regular reading opportunities at school and at home with their families.”
United Way of Northern New Jersey Success By 6 coalition has provided funding to bring this program to Wharton.
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To celebrate the launch of the first Dolly Parton Imagination Library in New Jersey, United Way, Wharton Public Library, and community volunteers are hosting a Registration Celebration.
Community members will meet at Marie V. Duffy Elementary School from 12:00pm to 3:00pm on Saturday, May 7 to kick-off the program and sign up local children.
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As part of the launch, children and families are invited to story time with Wharton Mayor William J. Chegwidden, where he will read The Little Engine that Could.
Attendees will also enjoy an afternoon story time in English and Spanish, music from a live DJ, games and contests, and opportunities to connect with other local organizations like the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and DARE program. In the event of rain, these activities will take place in the Marie V. Duffy Elementary School gymnasium.
The Dolly Parton Imagination Library began providing free books to children under five in March 2000. Each month, registered children receive a brand new, age appropriate book in the mail until they turn five. In their very last month of the program, children receive Look Out Kindergarten, Here I Come by Nancy Carlson.
Currently, registration is open to Wharton children only. If you cannot make the event and would like to register your child, call 973.993.1160, x130 or email Books@UnitedWayNNJ.org.
