At Arkansas Imagination Library, we are incredibly fortunate to collaborate with dedicated community partners across the state. This month, we are proud to highlight the Friends of the Newton County Library, a remarkable organization that has been a pillar of support for the Newton County, Arkansas, community for three decades.
About the Friends of the Newton County Library
The Friends of the Newton County Library (FOL) have been serving the community since their establishment as a 501(c)3 on June 6, 1994. The FOL has been instrumental in enriching and supporting the resources and facilities of the Newton County Library. The organization not only raises funds to cover items outside the library’s budget but also advocates for the library’s mission to serve the community.
The FOL’s fundraising efforts include book sales, plant sales, silent auctions, raffles, and much more. One of their most significant achievements was raising funds in the early 1990s to transform the county’s shop building into what is now the Newton County Library—the first building exclusively for library use in the county. This November, the FOL will help celebrate 30 years in this current location.
Partnering with Arkansas Imagination Library
In December 2019, the FOL became the local champion of the Newton County Imagination Library, partnering with the Arkansas Imagination Library (ARIL) to expand Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library throughout Newton County. Previously, the program had served only the Mt. Judea area under the leadership of Mrs. Bertie Wells, a dedicated school librarian and advocate for early literacy. Recognizing the need for a county-wide initiative, the FOL, led by Newton County Library Director Kenya Windel, took on the responsibility of managing and growing the program.
The Newton County Imagination Library, though still young, has made significant strides in reaching children and families across the county. Under Ms. Windel’s leadership, partnerships with local educators and organizations have been instrumental in enrolling children in the program. Thanks to her efforts, and the financial support from individuals, local businesses and organizations, and all three county school districts – Deer-Mt. Judea, Jasper, and Ozark Mountain – they have achieved 100% enrollment.
Impact on the Community
The Newton County Imagination Library has had a profound impact on the community. By providing free, high-quality books to all children under the age of five, regardless of family income, the program fosters early literacy and a love of reading. The inclusivity of the program allows children across the county to share in a collective literary experience, giving them a head start as they enter preschool, kindergarten, and beyond.
Moreover, the emotional and social benefits of shared reading time between parents and children cannot be overstated. These moments not only nurture a child’s intellectual development but also strengthen family bonds, creating lasting memories and instilling a lifelong love of reading.
Challenges and Successes
While the Newton County Imagination Library has faced challenges, particularly in securing sustainable funding, the community’s close-knit nature has allowed them to overcome obstacles and reach their goals. The FOL works tirelessly to advocate for the program, share information, and maintain partnerships that help sustain the initiative.
A particularly memorable milestone was achieved in May 2024, when the Newton County Imagination Library exceeded its enrollment goals, serving 100% of the county’s eligible children! This success was made possible by the collective efforts of community members who reached out to families and encouraged enrollment.
Looking Ahead
As the Newton County Imagination Library looks to the future, their goals are clear: maintain 100% enrollment and secure sustainable funding to continue providing this invaluable service to the community. They also plan to collaborate with local schools, preschools, and early literacy providers to integrate Imagination Library book lists into their curriculums, further enhancing the literacy experiences of the children they serve.
How You Can Help
The success of the Newton County Imagination Library is a testament to the power of community collaboration. The FOL encourages community members to support their efforts by advocating for the program, spreading the word to families with young children, and providing financial support. Donations can be made in person at the Newton County Library, by mail, or online via their affiliate page.
For more information or to get involved, please contact the Newton County Imagination Library coordinator, Ms. Kenya Windel, through the Newton County Library.
Thank you, Newton County, for your unwavering committment to literacy and community service! You are making a difference in the lives of children and families across Newton County.