This Family Day conversation brings together local leaders in education, research, and community-based literacy initiatives to explore both the challenges and successes of fostering early reading skills in New Orleans. Panelists will discuss why access to books in early childhood matters, how community partnerships support young readers and families, and what effective collaboration looks like in practice. Representatives from Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library will share how putting books into the hands of children from birth to age five is helping strengthen families and communities. Designed for educators, caregivers, and advocates, this session highlights the vital role early literacy plays in building strong foundations for the future.
