The Imagination Library scheme in North Lincolnshire has reached a significant milestone, delivering its one millionth book.
The scheme was inspired by country music queen Dolly Parton, who had the idea of an imagination library in 1995, motivated by her dad’s inability to read. The first books were sent out to children living in Sevier County, Tennessee, where Dolly grew up. In 2007, the idea came over to the UK.
North Lincolnshire’s Imagination Library scheme has been running since 2013. It has now issued more than one million free books to over 27,000 local children. In fact, North Lincolnshire has delivered a sixth of all Imagination Library books in the whole of the UK. And earlier this week, the scheme drew praise from neighbouring North East Lincolnshire councillors.
The millionth book achievement was celebrated with a special event at Live Well Isle of Axholme, where families, schools and Imagination Library author and illustrator Neil Clark gathered to mark the success of this life-changing initiative. The lucky child who received the millionth book was presented with a raft of prizes at the event. These included a family ticket to see Pirates Love Underpants at the Baths Hall in June donated by Norwell Lapley Productions.
North Lincolnshire Council leader, Cllr Rob Waltham (Conservative – Brigg and Wolds Ward), said: “The Imagination Library has become a crucial part of our efforts to support families and children in North Lincolnshire and this milestone reflects the dedication of everyone involved. We are committed to ensuring that every child in our area has the opportunity to thrive, and reading is a key part of that journey.”
The council will continue to fund the scheme, which delivers a free book each month to every child under five. Data shows children in North Lincolnshire registered with the Imagination Library perform better at the end of Early Years Foundation Stage, in the phonics screening check and in assessments at the end of Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2.
Cllr Julie Reed (Conservative – Axholme North), cabinet member for children, families, and communities, added: “This is a proud moment for North Lincolnshire, it’s fantastic to see the joy that the Imagination Library brings to families. Every book delivered is a step forward in helping to nurture a love of reading, which is vital for a child’s development.
“We’re so pleased to be part of such a positive initiative, and we look forward to continuing to support our young readers and their families.”
Dollywood Foundation, the non-profit educational organisation founded by the country music legend, regularly ask the council to share its best practice with the more than 200 affiliated partners in the imagination library scheme. Helen Hastle, regional director for Dollywood Foundation UK, said: “I would like to congratulate staff and volunteers at North Lincolnshire Council at all levels for their commitment, enthusiasm and vision to reach the one million Imagination Library books mailed milestone.
“What an achievement, bringing the joy of books and reading to so many children, with many building a fabulous home library from birth. You are our first programme partner to reach this milestone in the UK.”
The tenth anniversary of the council’s imagination library scheme even drew comment from Dolly herself, praising “the forward thinking folks at North Lincolnshire”. It is completely free to join North Lincolnshire’s Imagination library and siblings can register individually to each receive their own age appropriate book every month.
(Image: Getty Images)
Every child receives the tale of Peter Rabbit as a welcome book, with a special message from Dolly Parton in the front. Register now on the Imagination Library page of North Lincolnshire Council’s website here, or call into your local hub or library.
Join the FREE Grimsby Live WhatsApp Community
Get all the latest stories, sent straight to your WhatsApp – all you need to do is click the link.
We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Original artice: https://www.grimsbytelegraph.co.uk/all-about/scunthorpe
