Storytimes at the library aren’t just about listening to someone read a book. They're a space for kids and their families to connect, learn, and build community together. Here at the library, we're committed to collaborating with organizations that support literacy at all ages. We were lucky to recently host unique storytimes with two very different, but very important, literacy partners. Annie Lewis, Director of Libraries, hosted Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library as well as Portland Public Schools Superintendent, Dr. Kimberlee Armstrong. As a former youth librarian, Annie has a special connection to early childhood education and the power of storytimes.
Fostering imagination — with a little help from Dolly
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library offers free age-appropriate books to children each month from birth through age five. Any family in Oregon can enroll. In February, Lewis joined the Oregon branch of the Imagination Library, Oregon’s First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson, award-winning local author Cathy Camper, and United Way of the Columbia-Willamette at Central Library for a very special storytime.
At the storytime, families heard a greeting from the First Lady and a reading of Camper’s Ten Ways to Hear Snow. After that, Camper shared about her book, and families enjoyed songs and crafts. They were also able to learn more about the Imagination Library and how to set up free book deliveries for their kids.
"Multnomah County Library is thrilled to partner with the First Lady, United Way, and Dolly Parton's Imagination Library of Oregon to celebrate the joy of reading and the importance of early literacy," said Lewis. “Hosting this event with a beloved Portland author makes it even more special, showcasing the incredible literary talent in our own community while connecting families to resources that strengthen the foundation for lifelong learning."
Camper added, “Seeing the partnership between The Governor’s office, The Imagination Library, local program partners and public libraries, gives me hope for the next generation of readers and storytellers."
Supporting our students with Portland Public Schools
We hosted another special storytime later in February at Albina Library. Lewis and PPS Superintendent Dr. Kimberlee Armstrong shared an afternoon with a group of kids from kindergarten to second grade. Families, friends, and community members all joined to hear Lewis and Armstrong read Together, United by Tami Charles.
This storytime kicked off PPS’ Lift Literacy: Readers on the Rise campaign. The month-long event highlights how schools and libraries help kids become better readers. The campaign also helps organize community reading events like this storytime and others.
On top of storytimes and free events for all ages, we offer many resources to support students (and educators!). Portland Public Schools is one of our many Library Connect partners— a program that automatically provides students with access to public library services through their student ID number.
These storytimes with community organizations serve as a valuable reminder that your local library is more than just a building. It’s a place of opportunity. The library aims to make sure every patron has a line to the community resources they need to grow, learn, and thrive.