"Imagination Library" is a national literacy program that is now available in Forsyth County. The United Way of Forsyth County and the Rotary Clubs of Forsyth County have joined with the Ferst Foundation for Childhood Literacy to provide one book each month to children until they are five years old and ready for kindergarten. The foundation understands the importance of preschool reading and recognizes that parental involvement tops the list of things that determine a child's success in school.

The books are mailed directly to the child's home. “There is no catch. These books do not cost the parents one single penny. There is no club to join, no commitments to make and the families’ information will not be sold,” John Hayes III, Chair of the Community Action Team (CAT) explained. “All the parents have to do is fill out a registration form and the books will start coming.”

Robin Ferst started the Ferst Foundation in 1999 as a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering literacy and creativity in pre-kindergarten children. The program has distributed approximately 600,000 books to more than 35,000 children. Motivated by her success, Robin imagines the possibility of enrolling every child in the state.

Ferst was diagnosed with a hearing loss at age six and books became the most important part of her world. Books gave her a confidence that she might not have known otherwise. Reading opened up a world of possibilities and helped her overcome challenges. Reading was always fun. Although Robin is now profoundly deaf, her accomplishments stem from a caring family who took the time to read to her, and her ability to learn anything by reading.

If you have a child or children under 5 and you live in Forsyth County, you can find the Imagination Library registration form by contacting United Way at 770-781-4110 . Or, parents can sign children up online at www.ferstfoundation.org.

Individuals can make a donation to The Ferst Foundation to support the Imagination Library. All gifts go toward the purchase of books and bookcases for children.