State Rep. Don Jones | The Ohio House of Representatives
State Rep. Don Jones | The Ohio House of Representatives
State Representative Don Jones has announced that Harrison County is leading Ohio in participation in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program. The county has enrolled 79% of its eligible children, making it the top participant in the state.
The Imagination Library mails one free book each month to children from birth until their fifth birthday. This initiative is open to all children in Ohio within this age range.
In Harrison County, the program is managed by the Puskarich Public Library located in Cadiz, Ohio. Sandi Thompson, Director of the library, highlighted the benefits of the program: “The Dolly Parton Imagination Library of Ohio helps build family bonds centered around reading and sharing books together. This program increases early literacy skills and lights up children’s faces when they receive their special book in the mailbox. The program is backed by solid evidence that shows an educational advantage by participating children entering kindergarten.”
Harrison County's commitment to early childhood literacy extends beyond enrollment numbers. The county commissioners have committed $120,000 to support the local Imagination Library Fund. This contribution will be matched at 50% by both the legislature and the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio.
Representative Jones emphasized the importance of reading for young children: “Reading to young people improves their vocabulary, strengthens listening skills, and unlocks creativity. Having our commissioners invest in the Harrison County Imagination Library Fund will ensure this program will be available in our area for years to come.”
Parents interested in enrolling their children can visit OhioImaginationLibrary.org for more information.
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