By Heather Mullinix / hmullinix@crossville-chronicle.com
Simone O'Dell with the CCHS Jet Theatrix reads If You Give A Mouse A Cookie during the Imagination Library's third anniversary celebration Saturday. The literacy program serves children from birth to age five, providing free, age-appropriate reading material mailed directly to the child's home. Since the program began in May 2005, 41,514 books have been mailed to county children, and 2,122 children have been served.
Children came to the Imagination Library celebration Saturday dressed as their favorite characters from their books. Molly Cornwell brought her children, from left, Michaila, dressed as Abby Hayes; John David, who was a Jedi Knight; and Melody, portraying Amelia Bedelia. In addition to games, tours of a fire engine, face painting and story time, the event included a character costume contest. The Imagination Library is funded through state and local governments and local organizations and individuals. It costs $28 a year to provide one child with free reading material. Those interested in supporting the program, or in enrolling their child, may contact the Art Circle Library at 484-6790 for more information. Currently, the county has a participation rate of 57 percent.
