GREATER LONGVIEW UNITED WAY EXPANDS DOLLY PARTON’S IMAGINATION LIBRARY TO UPSHUR COUNTY
Bringing the joy of reading and the gift of a book each month to even more East Texas children.
LONGVIEW — Greater Longview United Way is expanding Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library (DPIL) to Upshur County, extending its commitment to early childhood literacy and ensuring more East Texas children have access to books from birth to age five. Already serving families in Gregg County, the program’s expansion will bring its free monthly books to children in Upshur County, helping families build a foundation for lifelong learning and a love of reading.
Greater Longview United Way believes every child deserves the opportunity to grow up with books in their home and the chance to discover the joy of reading. They have seen the impact Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has had on families in Gregg County, and are excited to extend that opportunity to Upshur County. By investing in early childhood literacy, they’re helping children build the skills and confidence they need to thrive.
Through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, enrolled children receive one free, high-quality, age-appropriate book mailed directly to their homes each month until their fifth birthday. The program encourages parents and caregivers to make reading a regular part of family life while supporting early literacy, language development, and school readiness. Greater Longview United Way coordinates the local program and works with community partners and supporters to make the books available to children at no cost to families.
The expansion to Upshur County has been made possible through the generous support of local businesses and community partners. Nolan Properties LLC is kicking off this program by generously funding the first five months of the program, helping bring free monthly books to children throughout Upshur County. Greater Longview United Way also extends its gratitude to those supporting the remaining months, including donations in honor of Virginia Young Goudarzi, Rotary Club of Gilmer, First National Bank of East Texas, Credit Union of Texas, and Gilmer ISD Foundation. Together, these donors are helping to create a generation of thriving young readers in Upshur County.
Families and community members interested in learning more about Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library or supporting the program can contact Raven Atkinson at Greater Longview United Way or visit www.longviewunitedway.org/dpil.