We love highlighting our local program partners who are working to bring the joy of books to children across the state. This month, we’re excited to feature the Crossett Public Library, a trusted community resource that has been serving Ashley County since 1937.
Through their work with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library (DPIL), they’ve made incredible strides in early literacy, helping ensure that young children in Ashley County grow up surrounded by books and ready to succeed in school.
A Library Rooted in Community Service
Crossett Public Library is one of only two public libraries in Ashley County and offers a wide range of services beyond traditional library materials.
Recognizing a need for greater access to early literacy, the library learned about DPIL at an Arkansas Library Association conference and saw an opportunity to bring this incredible program to Ashley County. Partnering with their Friends of the Crossett Public Library group, they worked hard to raise funds and get the program off the ground.
Impact of the Imagination Library
Since launching the program, over 700 children have been enrolled, marking a major milestone for the library. Community partners—including Crossett Public Schools and the Crossett Housing Authority—have played a key role in spreading awareness and encouraging families to sign up.
For families in this rural, lower-income area, DPIL is a vital resource. The ability to receive free, high-quality books in the mail not only supports school readiness but also fosters a love of reading at home.
Overcoming Challenges and Expanding Outreach
While the program has seen great success, the library still faces two major challenges:
Sustainable Funding – While they’ve been able to expand registration in recent years, ensuring long-term funding remains a priority.
Reaching Families Earlier – Too often, children don’t get enrolled until they are two or three years old. The library continues to work with schools, preschools, and local programs to encourage parents to sign up their children as early as possible—right at birth!
Their team remains committed to increasing early enrollment and ensuring even more children in Ashley County get the opportunity to receive free books.
Why It Matters
For the team at Crossett Public Library, supporting literacy isn’t just part of their job—it’s a passion. As one staff member shared:
“I come from a town in a different part of the state. Over the years, my hometown’s schools and reading achievement scores declined badly. After they implemented DPIL, and worked hard to get local children to participate, scores improved dramatically. DPIL helped my hometown out, and I hope it helps here as well.”
Looking Ahead
The library’s goal for the next year is simple: keep growing the program and enroll more children as early as possible. They encourage everyone in the community to help spread the word and make sure parents know about this incredible free resource for their little ones.
Get Involved
Want to help? Encourage families to sign up for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library today! The earlier children enroll, the greater impact these books will have on their literacy and learning journey.
For more information, contact Crossett Public Library at:
1700 Main Street, Crossett, AR 71635
(870) 364-2230
david@crossett.lib.ar.us
Thank you, Crossett Public Library, for making a difference in the lives of Ashley County’s children!