Country music star Dolly Parton is behind the reading scheme, Imagination Library, which aims to improve literacy levels in children by handing out free books.
Nottingham City Council has adopted the scheme and the country star has sent a special message of support.
In a video message she asks the people of Nottingham to support the scheme – even attempting the famous Notts greeting “Ay up mi duck”.
Dolly Parton’s message to the people of Nottingham
The scheme’s aim is to give children a free book once a month from birth until their fifth birthday.
In Nottingham only 60 per cent of children have the required level of literary skills, 14 per cent below the national average.
Dolly said: “This programme is one of the most important ways I know to improve the educational opportunities for children in our communities.”
“I want kids to love books, to have an emotional connection – even a reverence for books.”
Research shows that early reading helps children to:
- develop a love of books and reading
- have dedicated one-to-one time with parents
- discover new ideas and words
- perform better at school in reading and writing
Dolly’s scheme is already running parts of the city including Bilborough, Hyson Green, and Dunkirk & Lenton after support from the Rotary Club and Castle Cavendish – a charity that aims to improve the quality of life for people in Nottingham.
In 2014 Nottingham was awarded Lottery money and the “Imagination Library” scheme will be established in four additional neighbourhoods: Aspley, Arboretum, Bulwell and St Ann’s.
Councillor David Mellen, Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services, said: “We know reading changes lives – it broadens horizons and opens up a whole world of opportunities.”
Fundraising drive
As part of a Nottingham City Council fundraising drive, Dolly Parton has recorded an exclusive song, called “I Believe in You” that can be downloaded at www.dollybooksnottingham.org.
I Believe in You is the title track of Dolly’s new compilation album of children’s music to be released in Autumn 2015.
Every penny made from the sale of the album goes to supporting the Imagination Library.
The council also will be running cake sales, a ‘Double Denim’ theme day and the council bosses will be using their lunch break to raise money through a flash mob line-dance to a Dolly song.
“Our ambition is to extend the Imagination Library so that every Nottingham child from 0-5 years old can get a free book delivered to their home each month and ignite a lifelong passion for reading and give our children the very best start in life.”
