About Us

The Verde Valley Imagination Library

Mission

At the Verde Valley Imagination Library, our mission is to inspire a love of reading in children by providing free, high-quality books to families in our community. We believe every child deserves the chance to explore the world through stories, regardless of their family’s income or circumstances.

Through monthly book deliveries, we aim to foster early literacy, strengthen family bonds, and empower the next generation with the tools they need to succeed in school and beyond. Supported by generous sponsors and local partners, our program is dedicated to creating a brighter future—one book at a time.

Join us in bringing the joy of reading to every child in the Verde Valley!

Our History

The Rotary Club of Sedona brought the Imagination Library to Sedona with kick-off events at both libraries. Rotary District Governor, David Simmer, spearheaded the initiative. The Great Sedona Chili Cook-Off and individual donors helped fund the program. Thanks to Beaver Creek community leaders, the community of Rimrock was added to the program’s coverage area.

In 2016, with the help of a one-year challenge grant from the Arizona Community Foundation of Sedona and the support of all three area Rotary Clubs, the Imagination Library expanded to all Verde Valley communities. The newly named Verde Valley Imagination Library (VVIL) became a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit with representatives from each Rotary Club on its board.

Since its inception, VVIL has partnered with Northern Arizona Healthcare’s Verde Valley Medical Center who helps parents enroll their newborns into the program. To increase program awareness in the community, the organization’s Program Director works with parents and program partners, such as preschools, libraries, and the local county health center.

While there is never a cost to receive the books, operating expenses are covered through generous donations from individuals, sponsorships and grant funding. (See a list of grantors and sponsors on the Home page.) All monies remain in the Verde Valley to support area children and their families. The VVIL also hosts a bi-annual fundraiser. See all about the 2024 Blazin’ for Books Celebration and Fundraiser here.

Who We Serve

The Verde Valley Imagination Library is dedicated to serving children and families in Camp Verde, Clarkdale, Cornville, Cottonwood, Jerome, Lake Montezuma, McGuireville, Rimrock, Sedona, Verde Village and the Village of Oak Creek. Our program is available to children from birth to their 5th birthday. They are eligible to receive their own free, age-appropriate book every month. Whether you’re welcoming a newborn or raising a curious preschooler, the program is designed to spark a love of reading that will last a lifetime. By bringing books directly to homes, we’re ensuring that families in the Verde Valley have the resources they need to make reading a joyful and regular part of their lives.

Our Financials

The Verde Valley Imagination Library (VVIL) fiscal year runs from July 1 of one year to June 30 of the following year. Our operating budget for fiscal year 2024-2025 is expected to be approximately $70,000. Of this amount, approximately $55,000 is allocated for 21,000 monthly books sent to children zero to five years of age in the Verde Valley. The books are provided to the children at no cost to their families. The remainder of the cost covers a part time Program Director, social media marketing, and community events to promote the program.

VVIL raises money to cover operational costs and to maintain one year of reserve funds. Any additional funds raised are put into an endowment fund maintained at the Arizona Community Foundation in hopes that sometime in the future the operation will be able to be self-funded.

Why It’s Important

Reading during early childhood is one of the most powerful ways to set children up for success in school and life. The first five years are critical for brain development, and having access to books during this time helps children build vocabulary, develop critical thinking skills, and strengthen their ability to learn.

The Verde Valley Imagination Library bridges gaps in access to books, giving every child the chance to explore, imagine, and grow. For families, reading together fosters stronger bonds and creates lasting memories. By empowering children with the gift of literacy, we’re investing in a brighter future—not just for the individual child, but for our entire community.

Promote Childhood Literacy

The Imagination Library gives children access to free, high-quality books that build essential literacy skills. Early exposure to books fosters language development and helps children get a head start on learning.

Create a Home Library

With a new book arriving every month, families can easily build a collection of stories right at home. These books are carefully chosen to grow with your child, providing years of reading fun and development.

Promote Family Engagement & Bonding

Reading together strengthens family connections. Storytime offers a chance for parents and children to create meaningful moments while building a lifelong love of books.

Prepare Children for Success in School

Early reading helps children develop the skills needed to excel in school. By entering kindergarten with a strong foundation in literacy, children are better equipped to thrive academically and socially.

Foster a Love of Reading

The Imagination Library inspires children to view reading as fun and rewarding. By regularly receiving books, children build excitement and confidence in their ability to learn and explore new worlds.

Support Our Community

The Verde Valley Imagination Library brings people together, bridging gaps in access to resources. By supporting childhood literacy, we’re investing in the future success and growth of the entire Verde Valley.