Journal-News.com

Children and parents alike often say they don't like Mondays, but today, Nov. 17, may be an exception.

Today marks the local debut of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, via the Middletown Community Foundation. In this program, young children will be able to receive a free book every month.

The program makes its debut today via a kickoff event at 10 a.m. at the Middletown Public Library, 125 S. Broad St.

Registration forms will be available at the event and throughout the day. More than 1,000 of the forms have already been sent out.

"Everybody I've talked to think it's very exciting," said Gordon.

The foundation's executive director, T. Duane Gordon, will make some brief remarks. Then Middletown Mayor Lawrence Mulligan and City Manager Judy Gilleland will each read a book to the children there. Then there will be a break with cookies and juice boxes. Registration forms for the program will be available.

The program has two requirements: Children must be under age 5, and must live within the boundaries of the Middletown City School District, Gordon said.

The foundation has contributed $150,000 in five years to the early childhood literacy project that will provide one age-appropriate, hardcover, expert-selected book every month.

The foundation is providing 75 percent of the funding. Also contributing are the Middletown Area United Way, the Arthur Harvey Foundation and the local Kiwanis Club.

Contact this reporter at (513) 705-2836 or erobinette@coxohio.com.