The Imagination Library Program was the recent recipient of a $2,000 grant from the Northwest Alabama Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) Council.

Imagination Library is a preschool literacy program in Franklin County which serves children from birth to age five. By registering your child, they are eligible to receive a free hardback book in the mail each month until they reach the age of 5.

Without this service, many children might not have access to their very own books, which is important to early literacy.

The grant funds provided by RC&D were used to purchase the books sent to children by the program and also to pay for postage fees associated with mailing the books.

“Studies have shown that participating children are much better prepared to enter school at age five and to become good life-long readers, which is crucial to all aspects of their education,” Carla Hutto, Imagination Library coordinator, said.

Roger Hayes, Chairman of the Northwest Alabama RC&D Council, said that RC&D realizes the importance of early literacy programs such as Imagination Library to the long-term success of a student.

“Programs like Imagination Library really help prepare preschool-aged children by giving them a jump-start on reading before they ever step foot in a school building,” Hayes said.

“That slight edge can stick with them throughout their school career and even help when it comes time to compete for scholarships down the road.”

Hayes also expressed his appreciation to Senator Roger Bedford and Representative Johnny Mack Morrow who represent Franklin County and provide support for the RC&D program in the State Legislature.