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A United Way strategy to increase the number of graduating students reading at or above grade level. This countywide effort is led by the United Ways of Santa Barbara County. UFL is a multi-stage strategy utilizing proven effective programs-
Born Learning, Imagination Library, Reading Plus -  to work toward the 10 year goal of improving the on-time graduation rates and increasing the number of students reading at grade level in every grade.
 
 



Open a book and open a door to a child’s future. 

It only costs $1 per week to provide a child with a new book every month for an entire year and help support the Volunteer Literacy Corp— $1 per day will support a better future for 7 children.

To set up a monthly pledge to support this or other programs - click here.  All transactions are  processed through our secure PayPal payment gateway.

Click here for registration information.   

Books from Birth Research Report

Reading to pre-school children is one of the most important things we can do for them. Going into kindergarten prepared, is the first step to enjoying a quality education and on time graduation.

The Imagination Library will provide a brand new, age appropriate book, every month from birth to kindergarten, for every child in our county who would like one.

The child’s hardback book will be delivered right to their door each month. The first book that they will receive is The Little Engine That Could and their last book will be Look Out Kindergarten, Here I Come!

All books are selected by a panel of educators and are geared to the child’s specific age. 85% of a child’s brain development happens in the first five years of life. This is why promoting literacy is so important.
 


Dolly Parton's Imagination Library   

Free Books for Kids in Northern Santa Barbara County

 

A unique new opportunity has opened up for residents of Northern Santa Barbara County.   As a result of the combined efforts of the United Way and it's partners, The Imagination Library,  a national program  which promotes literacy in children, is now a reality.

At no cost to you, books will be sent directly to your home in your child's name.  The program will deliver a new book monthly to your child from birth until their 5th birthday or until you are no longer a resident of Northern Santa Barbara County.  Your only requirement is to read to your child--the most essential aspect of this program!

 Get in touch with United Way - Contact Us

What are my responsibilities?

  • Must be a resident of  Northern Santa Barbara County.
     

  • Submit an official registration form, completed by parent or guardian
    (This form must be approved and on file with United Way of Northern Santa Barbara County).

  • Notify UWNSBC any time your address changes.  Books are mailed to the address listed on the official registration form.

  • Read with your child.
     

  • Spread the word  -  If you know a preschool child who is not receiving books through the Imagination Library, give their parents the link to join, or a brochure to register.  There is nothing to lose--the program is free (but if you can, support us in reaching more children by making an online donation here) and a great benefit to the children in our community!