by Melanie Kozlowski, Early Literacy Librarian, and Kelly Pemrick, Imagination Library Coordinator for Estes Valley Library
One great idea. 27 years in the making. Its arrival deserves a party. And you’re invited!
Last week, we shared the exciting news that our Estes Valley Library has achieved affiliate status with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. With this milestone—we’re ready to sign up all local kids to receive free books mailed monthly to their homes. These books are age appropriate and chosen by childhood experts, all ready to delight kids and boost childhood literacy and learning development.
Since starting in 1995, the Imagination Library has been expanding nationally. Its Estes Valley arrival is an occasion to celebrate. Join us next Friday afternoon, May 20 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Library. It’s a party for everyone—all ages—and even if you don’t have kids at home.
Drop by and check out the fun! Here’s an overview of what you can look forward to:
Live Music. Our special guests are Lost Penny, an acoustic Americana duo based right here in Estes Park. They’ll be performing a variety of songs, including their newest single, “Dolly Do” written by Nadine Sekerez and inspired by the philanthropy and resolve of Dolly Parton. Have a seat and enjoy the music!
Signing Up Kids. Got kids under 5 living here in the greater Estes Valley? Visit our imagination Library table and we’ll get them signed up to start receiving books. The process is easy. And if your kids are 5 or older, we’ll share information about other library resources to keep them reading, learning and thriving.
Family Fun Activities. An Imagination Library party deserves some sparkle and creativity! Kids can take part in face painting or take home a balloon-twisted design, courtesy of Bridget’s Balloons. And from 11 to noon, visit the Makerspace upstairs for “Make an Ocean!”—we’ll have all the supplies for kids’ make-and-take art, perfect for ages 2 to 5.
Get your Photo with Dolly. With her very busy schedule, Dolly won’t be attending in person, but you can take your picture next to her life-size photo likeness. Your friends on social media will be very impressed!
Become part of the Summer Reading Community (all ages). May 20 is also the kickoff for the Summer Reading Program (with the 2022 theme, Oceans of Possibilities). It’s important for kids—studies confirm that summer reading keeps kids school-ready when they return in the fall. AND it’s for us grown-ups too, with programs and prizes, and the opportunity to be part of a community of like-minded readers and lifelong learners. Join us and we’ll tell you all about it!
No sign-up is necessary to attend the Imagination Library Launch Celebration on Friday, May 20. Drop in anytime from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Let’s celebrate together! And thank you to Imagination Library Colorado, the State of Colorado, and a generous donor to our local Library Friends & Foundation.