Arkansas Imagination Library welcomed Local Program Partners from across the state to Conway on May 1 for the 2026 ARIL Local Program Partner Summit at the University of Central Arkansas Brewer-Hegeman Conference Center.
The annual summit brought together literacy advocates, educators, nonprofit leaders, libraries, schools, and community partners for a day of collaboration and learning centered around this year’s theme: “Taking People with You: Making Big Things Happen Together.”
Throughout the day, attendees participated in breakout sessions focused on expanding and sustaining Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library programs in local communities. Topics included engaging businesses to support local program costs, strengthening partnerships with public schools, increasing community awareness through libraries, and improving storytelling and volunteer engagement.
The summit also featured updated Arkansas research and statewide impact information, networking opportunities, giveaways, and a keynote lunch presentation from Senator Clarke Tucker.
Local Program Partners play a critical role in making Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library possible across Arkansas. Together, these partners help provide free, high-quality books each month to children ages 0–5 in all 75 counties.
“We are so grateful for the dedication and collaboration of our Local Program Partners,” said ARIL LPP Director Dr. Tammy Benson. “The work happening in communities across Arkansas is changing children’s lives through early literacy.”
Arkansas Imagination Library thanks every attendee, speaker, volunteer, and partner who helped make the 2026 Summit a success. Together, we continue building stronger communities and brighter futures through the power of books.
Learn more about how you can volunteer with your Local Program!