Arkansas Imagination Library (ARIL) is proud to collaborate with dedicated partners across the state who share our commitment to early literacy and community engagement. This month, we’re shining a light on the Imagination Library local program partner for Faulkner County – the Division of Outreach and Community Engagement at the University of Central Arkansas (UCA), a cornerstone of Faulkner County’s educational landscape.
About UCA Outreach
Established in 1919, just twelve years after UCA was founded, the Division of Outreach and Community Engagement has been a bridge between the university and the wider community for over a century. Their mission is to connect the campus with the community through a wide range of innovative programs and
services, including youth enrichment, continuing education, customized training, and community development.
Outreach is well-known for its impactful programs such as CubsREAD, ACT Prep, and the Conway Area Youth Leadership Institute (CAYLI). Additionally, they offer a multitude of online learning and career training opportunities, and provide vital services to cities and towns across Arkansas, fostering community development and economic growth.
A Partnership Rooted in Education
The partnership between UCA Outreach and the ARIL began with Dr. Charlotte Rainey Parham’s vision of leveraging the university’s resources to support early childhood literacy. Recognizing the alignment between the Imagination Library’s mission and UCA’s commitment to education, Outreach became a natural partner in bringing Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to Faulkner County.
This collaboration has brought significant benefits to both the university and the community. Outreach has successfully increased the visibility of the Imagination Library, enrolling over half of Faulkner County’s children in the program. This partnership has also fostered new educational initiatives, including a reading program for Kindergartners and first graders in collaboration with another campus department.
Celebrating Milestones and Impact
One of the most memorable moments in this partnership was the recent Imagination Library Graduation/Kickoff to Kindergarten event, held at Laurel Park in Conway. This celebration marked a significant milestone for children aging out of the Imagination Library as they prepared to start Kindergarten. The event was a joyful occasion, filled with proud parents and eager children, and underscored the importance of early literacy in setting children on a successful academic path.
The impact of the Imagination Library on the community is profound. By providing free, high-quality books to young children, the program ensures that Faulkner County’s kids are better prepared to enter school ready to learn. This early exposure to reading not only enhances literacy skills but also promotes a lifelong love of learning—a gift that will benefit these children throughout their lives.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Goals
While Outreach has made significant strides, challenges remain, particularly in spreading the word about the program and encouraging parents to actively read to their children at home. However, with continued effort and community support, Outreach aims to increase program enrollment to 65% of children under age five.
The community can play a vital role in supporting this goal. Although Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a global initiative, it relies on local support to thrive. Donations of $26—the cost of delivering one book a month to a child for a year—can make a significant difference.
How You Can Help
You can help by spreading the word about the Imagination Library and encouraging families to enroll their children or by making a financial donation to support the program. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps ensure that more children in Faulkner County receive the gift of literacy.
Get in Touch
To learn more about the Division of Outreach and Community Engagement at UCA, or to get involved with the Imagination Library in Faulkner County, please contact Outreach at 501-450-3118 or email outreach@uca.edu. Together, we can continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of children in our community.