Last night we officially launched the Benalla Imagination Library!
Thank you to the many locals who came along to share the launch event with us. Special thanks to guest speaker Margot Sherwill for sharing her insights into early childhood literacy and the benefits of the Imagination Library in such a clear and relatable way.
Thanks also to the other speakers at the event, Ann Kimberley who spoke on behalf of the Rotary Club of Benalla, Mayor Danny Claridge for Benalla Rural City Council and our Executive Officer Jodie Fleming who spoke about the program’s history and why Tomorrow Today is championing this initiative. A special thanks to the staff at Benalla Library for providing the venue and supporting the program so whole-heartedly.
This fantastic program is part of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library which is managed in Australia by United Way Australia. In Benalla, it is a joint initiative of Tomorrow Today, Benalla Rural City Council and the Rotary Club of Benalla.
The Benalla Imagination Library provides a free age-appropriate book to children aged 0-2 each month. Reading with young children helps to establish early literacy skills which are the foundation for independent reading. 90% of caregivers reported spending more quality family time as a result of participating in the program.
Parents or caregivers can enrol their child online here or contact us for assistance.
Donations to support a child to participate in the program are welcomed. A donation of $120 covers the cost for one child for 12 months. Donations over $2 are tax deductible. You can donate here or call 5762 1211.