United Way of Whiteside County, in partnership with LIFE Literacy of Fun for Everyone, is excited to announce Dolly’s Book Bash, a free, family-friendly event that celebrates Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.  This evening of literacy and fun will take place on Thursday, October 3, 2024, from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m., at Sterling Public Library.  The address is 102 W. 4th Street, Sterling, IL.

Dolly’s Book Bash aims to inspire a love of reading in children, while providing families with an opportunity to enjoy quality time together.  The event is free and open to everyone, with a special focus on families with young children.

Event Highlights:
• Engaging storytelling sessions
• Creative craft activities
• Interactive games
• Delicious treats
• Exciting prizes
• Information about Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program.

“We’re thrilled to bring Dolly’s Book Bash to our community,” said Keri Olson, Executive Director of United Way of Whiteside County.  “This event is a wonderful way to celebrate the joy of reading and introduce more families to the incredible resource, the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.”

Jennifer Slaney, Chair of LIFE and Director of the Sterling Public Library, added, “Early literacy is crucial for a child’s development.  Through events like Dolly’s Book Bash, we aim to make reading fun and accessible for all families in Whiteside County.”

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a book gifting program, that mails free, high-quality books to children from birth, until they begin school, regardless of their family’s income.  This program has been shown to significantly improve early childhood literacy rates.

No registration is required for this event.  Families are encouraged to drop in at any time during the event hours.

For more information about Dolly’s Book Bash or Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Whiteside County, please visit www.uwwhiteside.org, or contact United Way of Whiteside County at 815-625-7973.