This month, we’re excited to shine a light on the Imagination Library of the Ouachitas, a dedicated local program partner that has been working tirelessly since 2013 to bring books into the hands of children in Garland, Montgomery, and Pike Counties. Through their commitment and community partnerships, they are creating a love of reading in Arkansas’s youngest residents and giving them the tools they need to enter school ready to learn.
About Imagination Library of the Ouachitas
Founded as the Garland County Imagination Library (GCIL), the organization began its mission of delivering monthly books to children under five in Garland County. In 2016, they expanded to serve Montgomery County, and by 2018, they reached Pike County as well. With a goal to enroll 65% of eligible children across the counties, they’ve already achieved impressive rates—73% in Garland, 84% in Montgomery, and an incredible 99% in Pike County!
The Power of Partnership
Their partnership with the Dolly Parton Imagination Library (DPIL) and Arkansas Imagination Library (ARIL) began thanks to local Rotary Clubs in Garland County. This collaboration has since grown, allowing the Imagination Library of the Ouachitas to deliver thousands of books to children, positively impacting their literacy and school readiness. Local principals and superintendents report seeing a marked difference in Kindergarten readiness, highlighting the program’s value for the community.
Success Stories and Community Impact
The Imagination Library of the Ouachitas began working with local birthing hospitals very early on in their history to enroll children when they were newborns. Today, they continually work with CHI St. Vincent and National Park Medical Center to ensure they are registerings newborns. Parents frequently share heartwarming stories of their children eagerly picking up books, asking to be read to, and even “reading” on their own. This enthusiasm for books is creating a strong foundation for lifelong learning and literacy. The organization also participates in events, like the recent “Difference Makers of Hot Springs,” where they connect families to resources and register new children into the program.
Looking Ahead
As they continue to grow, the Imagination Library of the Ouachitas aims to further increase enrollment to 100% in each county and sustain the community’s generous support. Donations from schools, businesses, and community foundations have been essential to their success, enabling them to maintain and expand the program across all three counties.
Get Involved
You can support the Imagination Library of the Ouachitas by spreading the word, donating, or volunteering. For more information, reach out through their Facebook page or contact Anita Watson at 501-547-0174.
Thank you, Imagination Library of the Ouachitas, for making a lasting impact on early childhood literacy in Arkansas!