Fayette Electric Cooperative recently reached a significant milestone by delivering books to more than 500 children through its collaboration with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. This initiative has made a meaningful difference in the communities FEC serves. Since its launch in August 2022, the program has distributed over 5,599 books to 564 children, completely free of charge to participating families.
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a globally recognized literacy initiative, aims to foster a love for reading by mailing free books to children from birth to age five. Through its collaboration with the program, Fayette Electric Cooperative has helped bring this mission to life, empowering families across its service areas and supporting early childhood development.
Transforming Communities One Book at a Time
The numbers are impressive, but the stories behind them are even more inspiring. Parents report that the program has sparked curiosity and imagination in their children, building essential pre-literacy skills. Teachers in the community have noticed that children who participated in the program often enter school with a stronger vocabulary and a better grasp of foundational literacy concepts.
“We’re proud to see the impact this program has had on our communities,” said Marketing and Training Manager Tracy Denton. “Providing free books to families not only supports children’s learning but also strengthens the bonds between parents and children as they read together. It’s an investment in our future.”
The initiative has been particularly transformative in rural areas served by Fayette EC, where access to libraries and bookstores can be limited. By delivering books directly to children’s homes, the program ensures that every child, regardless of their location or family’s financial situation, has access to high-quality, age-appropriate reading materials.
A Commitment to Community
FEC’s involvement in the Imagination Library is a testament to its commitment to enhancing the lives of its members. Beyond powering homes and businesses, the cooperative has embraced a broader mission to strengthen the communities it serves.
The partnership has also sparked additional engagement within the community. Local businesses have stepped up to support the program by helping with outreach efforts including Prosperity Bank - La Grange, Fayette Savings Bank – La Grange, Banks Pediatrics, the Flatonia Public Library, the Fayette Public Library, the Weimar Public Library, La Grange Elementary School, Frisch Auf! Valley Country Club, Crosspoint Christian Academy, and Dig-It! Daycare.
Looking Ahead
As the program continues, Fayette Electric Cooperative is eager to expand its reach, ensuring that even more children can benefit from the life-changing power of books. Families with young children in these zip codes - 77975, 78941, 78945, 78949, 78956, 78959, 78962, and 78963 - are encouraged to enroll in the program and join the growing community of readers.
Through initiatives like the Imagination Library, Fayette Electric Cooperative is proving that its commitment to members and community extends far beyond reliable electricity. It’s about lighting the way for a brighter, more literate future.
For more information about enrolling in the Imagination Library, visit www.fayette.coop/dpil or www.imaginationlibrary.com.