The Kent County Public Library in Chestertown was packed with parents and pre-school children on Wednesday evening for the kick-off event of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Wise teachers and parents have known for years that children who are read to regularly in their preschool years have the best chance of success in school. Dolly Parton is now giving a boost to regular family reading by sending an age-appropriate book to any child’s home every month until the child turns five. There is absolutely no charge, nor is there any income requirement.
Mr. Sam entertain the kids at Kent County Public Library.
It is easy and free to sign up. You must be a resident of Kent County, MD. A parent or guardian must fill out an official registration form, which will remain on file with Family & Community Partnerships of Kent County. The parent or guardian must notify Family & Community Partnerships if their address changes. Most importantly, the parent or guardian must read to their child. Books will begin to arrive at the child’s home within eight to ten weeks.
The kick-off event was a joint effort of the Kent County Public Library and Family & Community Partnerships of Kent County (also known as the Local Management Board). Rebecca Lepter, Director of Family & Community Partnerships, said, “We hope to sign up 400 children this year.”
Mr. Sam came from the Eastern Shore Regional Library to sing for about 250 people. There was party food, games and crafts. Natalie Lane and Annie Woodall, who run children’s programming at the library, wore zany hats as they guided families through the various activities.
If you know a preschool child who is a resident of Kent County, let their parent or guardian know about this life-changing program. Brochures are in the library. For more information, call Family & Community Partnerships of Kent County at 410-810-2673.
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