EL PASO COUNTY, Colo. – After the Imagination Library program, which has delivered free books to more than 9,000 children in Teller and El Paso counties for 14 years, lost its nonprofit sponsor, a local couple stepped in to preserve the service.
Community leaders fill the funding gap
Earlier this year the Pikes Peak United Way announced it was ending its partnership with the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, citing the availability of other programs better positioned to handle literary needs in Colorado Springs. The decision left a potential shortfall, as half of the program’s costs had been covered by the United Way and the other half by state funds.
Geoff and Jessica Mulligan, longtime residents of the area, learned of the looming gap and decided to act. “When we heard that kids might not get books, we looked at each other and were like, ‘We can do this,’” Geoff Mulligan said. “We didn’t quite know what we were taking on, but we said we can do this, and we will make this happen.”
Pikes Peak Early Literacy Foundation takes over
The Mulligans founded the Pikes Peak Early Literacy Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to maintaining the Imagination Library’s monthly book deliveries. Their goal, Mulligan explained, is to make the program stable for the coming years.
Under the new arrangement, the funding structure remains the same: the state continues to pay half of the book costs, while the foundation covers the remaining half, roughly $10,000 per month. The Mulligans are actively seeking community support to meet this financial commitment.
No disruption for families
Children already enrolled in the program will not need to re‑register; they will continue to receive their monthly book without interruption. Parents interested in enrolling new children can visit the foundation’s website for registration details.
Local officials praised the effort as an example of community‑driven problem solving. “When a need arises, it’s heartening to see neighbors step up and ensure our children have access to literature,” said a spokesperson for El Paso County’s Department of Education.
How to help
The foundation is calling on residents, businesses, and faith‑based groups to contribute financially or volunteer their time. Donations can be made through the foundation’s website, and volunteers are needed for book sorting, distribution, and outreach to families.
By keeping the Imagination Library alive, the Pikes Peak Early Literacy Foundation aims to foster a love of reading that will benefit the region’s children for generations.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
