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Council introduces $10,000 appropriation for Imagination Library to expand children's book deliveries
Summary
On first reading council proposed a $10,000 appropriation from the general fund to support the Ohio Governor's Imagination Library program; council members described the program's goal of delivering an age-appropriate book monthly to children from birth to age 5.
Athens City Council read Ordinance 96-25 for the first time on Sept. 15, proposing a $10,000 appropriation from the unappropriated general fund balance to support the Ohio Governor's Imagination Library in Athens. The ordinance would increase the 2025 appropriation by $10,000 and takes effect upon passage and mayoral approval.
Council members described the program as a book-delivery initiative that places one age-appropriate book in the hands of children from birth through age 5 each month. Council Member Swank and Council Member Clodfelter spoke in favor of the appropriation, citing examples from home visits and noting library partners and county-level program matching. Swank said the city’s contribution helps the local library cover the local share of program costs and emphasized the program’s reach into homes that otherwise lack books.
Status and next steps: The item was presented at first reading; no final vote was taken at the Sept. 15 meeting. Council members urged continued local financial support and asked the local library director for metrics on program reach.
Why it matters: Supporters said monthly mailed books can increase early-literacy exposure for children who might not otherwise have books at home. The ordinance as introduced would require a future appropriation vote for final adoption.
