Aliteracy program that has served Hamblen County families for more than two decades is entering an exciting new chapter with the launch of its Mobile Book Bus, an initiative designed to bring books and educational opportunities directly into neighborhoods across the community.

The Morristown-Hamblen Imagination Library program, inspired by Dolly Parton’s nationally recognized early literacy effort, has been a cornerstone of childhood development in the region since 2004.

Originally facilitated by HC*EXCELL, the program has delivered more than 300,000 free, age-appropriate books to children from birth to age five, helping foster a love of reading from an early age.

The program’s foundation was built through a strong partnership between local organizations and the state’s literacy initiative, now known as the Governor’s Early Literacy Foundation. Together, they have shared the cost of providing books to families, ensuring that access to early learning resources remains free and equitable.

Over the years, the program has evolved to meet the growing needs of the community.

After transitioning to the Morristown-Hamblen Imagination Library Advisory Council in 2017 under the Morristown-Hamblen Library, leadership has now returned to HC*EXCELL to support expanded outreach efforts—most notably, the Mobile Book Bus.

Leah Taylor and Ann Cranford said the initiative removes barriers to access by bringing books, literacy activities, and enrollment opportunities directly to where families are.

The Mobile Book Bus will serve a wide range of locations, including schools, daycare centers, healthcare providers, community organizations, and so forth.

In addition to its traditional focus on early childhood literacy, the program is expanding its offerings to include books for teens and adults, broadening its impact across generations.

Leading this effort is Darlene Smith, who was hired as part-time IML coordinator last year. Smith oversees both the Imagination Library Mobile Book Bus outreach, helping coordinate events, partnerships, and community engagement. Smith is a retired educator who also serves on the Hamblen County Board of Education.

The response has already been strong, with numerous events scheduled and continued interest from organizations eager to host the bus.

Those interested in having the Imagination Library Mobile Bus at their organization, may call 423- 258-2758.

In January 2024, Hamblen County proudly received a GELF grant to launch a brand-new Imagination Library Mobile Book Bus, marking an exciting milestone in expanding literacy opportunities throughout the community.

This innovative initiative has been made possible and continues to thrive thanks to the generous support of major sponsors, including Colortech, the Rogers Foundation, HC*EXCELL, WSCC, Morristown Signs, and many other dedicated community partners.

Their ongoing investment and commitment have not only helped bring this vision to life but have also ensured its continued growth, allowing the program to reach more children and families with each passing year.

As the program celebrates its 22nd anniversary, organizers emphasize that community support remains essential.

Donations, volunteers, and partnerships continue to play a critical role in ensuring every child in Hamblen County has access to books and the opportunity to succeed.

Every gift – time, resources, or advocacy – keeps the bus moving and helps place books directly into the hands of children, where lifelong readers are made. Without donors, the bus doesn’t roll.

• Donating $25 would put books in the hands of children.

• Donating $100 would offer a full bus stop of joy.

• Donating $500+ would be a community reached.

No matter the size, every gift creates a moment that lasts.