The Joplin Community offers many free resources to support adult and children's literacy.
Dolly Parton's Imagination Library
Available Statewide in Missouri-Free!
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is dedicated to inspiring a love of reading by delivering high-quality, age-appropriate books each month to the homes of registered children under age 5, at no cost to the family.
Sign up at https://imaginationlibrary.com/check-availability/ for questions contact 573-751-9961 or ImaginationLibrary@dese.mo.gov
Adult Education & Literacy - Joplin Schools
Joplin Adult Education and Literacy prepares students for passing the high school equivalency exam, ACT, SAT, COMPASS, TABE, and ASVAB tests. Adults may come to study for any reason – even to be able to help kids with their homework! Group classes and one-on-one instruction in reading, math, and writing are offered free of charge.
hsejoplinael.org/aboutus/
Joplin NALA Read
Joplin NALA Read offers free classes and one-on-one tutoring in literacy-related subjects, including reading, writing, math, computer literacy, and English as a Second Language.
www.joplinnala.org/
Joplin Public Library
Our Library opens tomorrow’s doors today through diverse opportunities to learn, create, explore, and have fun.
www.joplinpubliclibrary.org/
Head Start/ Early Head Start
Head Start and Early Head Start are premier child development programs that serve prenatal women and children ages 0-5 years. Options include free childcare and preschool programs, home-visiting for stay-at-home parents, and comprehensive nutrition, health, and family services.
Headstartapp@escswa.org or 417-781-0352
Early Head Start:https://www.escswa.org/education/
Head Start:https://www.escswa.org/hs_ehs/
Joplin Parents as Teachers
Joplin Parents as Teachers offers free home visits customized to the needs of your family and child, developmental screenings, and fun group events. Offered through the Joplin school district, Joplin PAT supports parents in their role as the child’s first and most important teacher. This program is for expecting parents and families with children not yet attending kindergarten.
www.joplinschools.org/departments/student_services/parents_as_teachers
Jasper County Juvenile Division
The Jasper County Juvenile Division offers services focused on treatment, counseling, competency development, and education because these are key factors in reducing recidivism and children’s future involvement in the juvenile justice system. The services are provided at the Juvenile Center after the youth’s needs have been identified.
jaspercountyjuvenile.org/other-programs
The Alliance of Southwest Missouri
The Alliance offers activities, programs, and initiatives to our four-county service area which includes: Jasper, Newton, Barton, and McDonald County. Programs include Infant and youth services, Missouri Reentry, Building Bridges, and Community Coalitions.
www.theallianceofswmo.org/our-programs/
Youth Volunteer Corps
YVC engages youth in team-based service experiences that build life and work skills while inspiring a lifetime ethic of service.
yvc.org/about-us/
