A program established to promote early childhood literacy in Mesa County has passed a milestone.

The Mesa County Imagination Library, a part of United Way of Mesa County, has facilitated the mailing of more than 40,000 books to children under 5 years old.

“We believe that reading with children from a young age is crucial in building a strong foundation for their future,” said Keira Auld, the community impact manager at United Way of Mesa County. “By providing access to books and promoting early literacy, we can empower children to explore, learn and develop a lifelong love for reading.” 

Formerly operated as the Grand Junction Imagination Library and Lower Valley Imagination Library, United Way of Mesa County took over the program in November. Since then, the program has expanded its reach, making it accessible to families in all zip codes in Mesa County. Each month, the program mails more than 3,400 books.

Inspired by the vision of country music icon Dolly Parton, the Mesa County Imagination Library program, in partnership with the Dollywood Foundation, offers free, high-quality books to children from birth to their fifth birthday.

For more information about the Mesa County Imagination Library or enroll a child, visit https://imaginationlibrary.com/check-availability. By signing up, families can ensure their children receive a new, age-appropriate book delivered to their mailbox each month.