History of the Imagination Library of Wood Buffalo

“Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.”
- Frederick Douglass

“Reading Inspires Us to Dream.”
- Dolly Parton

More than 10 years ago, a town hall brought together community leaders, including educators, political representatives, and local partners, that believe in setting children up for success.  Their conversation highlights why access to books is essential to a thriving Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo. 

They talked about literacy as an essential life skill and its importance in the fight against poverty. A child that hasn’t been read to often doesn’t know how to behave or express themselves. These children struggle from the beginning, and few ever catch up. Making books available to families, and encouraging caregivers to read to children through development gives kids a better chance of success in school, from elementary to post secondary, and empowers them to feel connected, explore, learn and ask questions.  

Also on their mind were the many families that come to our community because of its diversity and potential for opportunity. For some of these new neighbours, English is not their first language. High quality books help children and parents prepare for school and help both learn to read and speak English.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library can help all the children that call Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo home have access to the tools they need to succeed. This Library isn’t contained by walls, geography or socioeconomic status. It ensures that books can reach kids in the city just as easily as Fort Chipewyan or Conklin.  Mailing books, free of cost, also gives caregivers who are shift workers far more access to high quality books.   

Originally spearheaded by the Rotary Club, Imagination Library of Wood Buffalo Foundation is now its own society, and our sole focus is on ensuring a successful Imagination Library here in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo.  

Our work is made possible through partnerships with the Wood Buffalo Regional Library, The Hub Family Resource Centre, Athabasca Tribal Council, Multicultural Association of Wood Buffalo, the Fort McMurray Public School District, Fort McMurray Catholic Schools, and many local daycares, churches etc. To learn more, visit our Partners page.

As well, other local organizations, individuals and businesses sponsor and donate to our program. To learn more, please visit our Sponsor page.

Statistics

  • To date we have mailed out 248,602 books

  • Approximately 2,500 children receive books each month

  • Approximately 30,000 books go to children a year

  • We serve 12 communities but we served anything considered part of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo

  • We have had many partnerships throughout the years but six or so continuous. We are always looking for partnerships!

  • In Canada, 35,000 books are mailed out to children each month

  • This program is in five countries in the World and over 170,000,000 books have been mailed children to date

  • We had numerous volunteers since starting 11 years ago. Currently we have 8 Board Members. We are always looking for more volunteers!