Encouraging Young Readers

To the Editor:

On Sunday, May 15, C.H. Booth Library graciously hosted United Way’s launch event for our free book program, Imagination Library. This great program provides all Newtown children ages 4 and under with a free, age-appropriate book mailed to their home once a month! We successfully registered 110 children that day and children participated in story time, face painting, took photos with Clifford the Big Red Dog, and were happily entertained by Sparkles the Clown and her balloon creations. I want to thank the C.H. Booth Library staff, the Young Adult Library Volunteers, and Newtown residents Sean and Rebecca Morits and Caryn Golden for assisting me with set up and registration. Finally, a special thank you to all those residents who made generous donations to help launch Imagination Library in Newtown.

It was such a joy to watch the children smile as they received their first book, The Little Engine that Could, as well as to hear parents ask how they could “Pay it Forward” to ensure that all Newtown children receive books. Participants also received free Born Learning materials that encourage parents and caregivers to take everyday experiences and turn them into learning opportunities.

United Way is excited to encourage early literacy and expand Imagination Library to Newtown in addition to Danbury, Bethel, and New Milford. We believe all children are “born learning” and we are confident that this program will help to foster an environment in homes and child care centers that promotes a love for reading, even from birth. For those that were unable to attend the event, you may register your child at www.uwwesternct.org/our-work/edu/school-readiness. I encourage you to sign up and when your child’s special book arrives in the mail, curl up on the couch with him or her and read, read, read!

Sincerely,

Rachel Torres-O’Leary

Early Childhood Coordinator

13 Saw Mill Ridge Road, Newtown                                May 19, 2011