Reading program hits major milestone

SINCE its introduction to Glenelg Shire in 2013 by United Way Glenelg, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has delivered more than 53,000 books to local children, fostering a love of reading from infancy.

Now, more than a decade on, the program is celebrating a major milestone—the 1000th child graduating from the program.

One of the original children enrolled in the very first year was Eden King, who also attended the official launch event in 2013.

A now-iconic photo of Eden alongside then-Portland Aluminium Plant Manager Peter Chellis has been lovingly recreated 12 years later to mark this special occasion.

As part of the celebrations, Eden shared how the program shaped her childhood and continues to influence her life today.

“Some of my best memories are getting the books in the mailbox and reading together in the loungeroom or in bed with Mum and Dad,” Eden said. “We had books everywhere—on holidays, in the car, even on the plane. We packed them everywhere we went.”

Eden began reading independently from Prep and continued right through primary school.

“Mum and Dad read a lot and were really good role models,” they said. “It set a foundation. Even though I didn’t read much between Year 7 and 9, I’ve come back to it now—I read for enjoyment, especially comedy books. I share them with friends, buy books, and use the library regularly.

“It built a good habit from a young age, and I still read independently. I think all that reading helped my spelling too, especially through regular library visits.”

When asked if they’d recommend the program to others, Eden was clear.

“Get involved. It creates good habits, great outcomes, and it feels good when you receive something in the mail that is just for you,” she said.

United Way Glenelg’s executive officer Nicole Carr said Eden’s story perfectly captured the heart of the program.

“Eden’s story is not only nostalgic, but it also highlights how powerful a book in a child’s hand can be. That early exposure builds confidence, connection, and curiosity that carries on for years,” Ms Carr said. “Reaching the milestone of 1000 graduates is a significant moment for our community.”.

The success of the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Glenelg Shire has been possible thanks to the strong partnership with Portland Aluminium. Peter Chellis, who was the Plant Manager at the time of the initial launch, returned to the role in November 2024 after retiring in 2018.

“I looked back on my speech at the launch, and it still rings true to this day,” Mr Chellis said. “To have the opportunity and ability to help educate the next generation; to give them the best possible start to life is a privilege.

“As a business we want to be sustainable well into the future and being able to provide educational opportunities for our local children and help build our future employees is an important goal for Portland Aluminium. I was back then, and am still today, personally proud of Portland Aluminium’s involvement in this program and what it gives to children.”

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library continues to provide local children with the foundation for literacy success. With strong community support, United Way Glenelg looks forward to enrolling even more families and celebrating further milestones in the years to come.

For more information on enrolling in the program, visit https://imaginationlibrary.com/au/affiliate/PORTLANDVIC/