The Modesto Friends of the Library was presented an award by Stanislaus Reads for sponsorship of children, and participation in, the Imagination Library.   
School readiness starts from the 1st day of life. We know this, yet 61% of Stanislaus County homes with young children do not have any books. Imagination Library, a vital component of Stanislaus Reads, addresses this lack. Every month, a carefully selected book is sent to each registered child. Studies show children growing up in homes with many books get 3 years more schooling than children from bookless homes, independent of their parent’s education or occupation.

Dolly Parton began the Imagination Library in 1995 because she saw the need for books in the homes of young children. She has worked to fill this need to the tune of sending 67 million books to 1400 affiliates.

Financing comes from the participating communities; the amount estimated is $150 to sponsor a child from birth to age 5. To date, Stanislaus County has $60,000 in donations from involved community groups and individuals, funding for 850 children.