An important early literacy effort is making progress thanks to Arnold High School senior Eli Rogers. He has devoted his time to expanding the Dolly Parton Imagination Library (DPIL), a program that mails free, age-appropriate books to children from birth to age five. Eli helped establish Nebraska Early Reading Development (NERD) and built a partnership with Link to Literacy, a Lincoln-based nonprofit. Through this model, DPIL now reaches one-third of Nebraska, with a framework designed for long-term, statewide growth.

Reading to young children plays a powerful role in their development. Even a few minutes a day builds language, attention, and a love of books that supports learning for years to come. Programs like DPIL help families create these early reading habits, giving more children a strong start in school.

Families can enroll their children at birth, but the program’s growth depends on support in every county. Eli is working to secure direct partnerships with local businesses and patrons across Nebraska so all children can receive books. By building local advocates to lead outreach, enrollment, and sustainability, he is creating a statewide network capable of ongoing expansion.

Donations may be mailed to N.E.R.D., PO Box 302, Arnold, NE 69120 (checks payable to N.E.R.D., memo line: DPIL), or made online at imaginationlibrary.com by selecting NE–Central Nebraska as the affiliate. Donors may also email nebraska.reading.development@gmail.com to ensure their county is included. To learn more, visit imaginationlibrary.com.

As we marked Veterans Day last week, we recognize the men and women who have served and the families who support them. Veterans have faced danger, long separations, and missed milestones so we may live freely. Their families share in these sacrifices, supporting loved ones in service and reminding us that service extends far beyond the uniform. We thank all veterans for their service and dedication.

Facebook: Tanya Storer for Legislature Email: tstorer@leg.ne.gov Phone: (402) 471-2628 https://nebraskalegislature.gov/senators/landing- pages/index.php?District=43 Respectfully, Senator Tanya Storer