Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is on a mission to encourage literacy and the love of reading for young children ages zero through five.
Imagination Library sends children an age-appropriate book each month, based on the child’s birth date. I learned about the program from a neighbor, a newly minted grandparent, and easily signed up all four of my own grandchildren. My daughter had recently hinted loudly that my children’s book supply could use some attention. She was tired of bringing her own stack of books each trip to see us.
Both parents and grandparents are eligible to participate. The books come to me each month, addressed to the child’s name. This way, their “personalized” book is something to look forward to reading with us every time they visit. (I admit, I enjoy receiving books with childlike glee.)
Dolly Parton created Imagination Library in honor of her father, whom she describes as the smartest person she knew. However, he was unable to read, so her mission became to nurture a love of reading for children from a very early age. Not only does it foster literacy, but it also encourages imagination. Parental (or grandparental) participation is also paramount to the mission. Parent/child engagement through reading is essential, and of course, one of the most rewarding experiences both can have.
Delaware libraries began participating in the program in 13 libraries in 2020, at the height of the pandemic – when children were not in school and in need of resources for creativity. Spearheaded by then-First Lady Quillen Carney and Delaware’s state librarian, Dr. Annie Norman, the program quickly caught on, eventually becoming available statewide.
Although the Dolly Parton Imagination Library purchases the books wholesale, it is still the responsibility of each affiliate to share the cost – in our case, The Delaware Division of Libraries. We are fortunate as residents to have such a beneficial program.
In the words of Delaware’s top librarian, Dr. Norman, “Kids Who Read Succeed.” And Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library’s own motto is, “Dream More, Learn More, Care More, Be More.” In a letter to readers on Imagination Library’s website, Parton refers to reading as a “magical journey.”
What started as a grassroots effort in Dolly Parton’s childhood county in rural Tennessee in 1995 is now active throughout the United States, Canada, Republic of Ireland, the UK and Australia. A bilingual version (Spanish) is now available.
In Delaware, the Division of Libraries has formed partnerships with local hospitals (signing up newborns). They also have outreach to preschools and day cares.
To date, over 270 million books have been sent free of charge to young children and their parents. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library’s first book order was for 1,700 books. Today, over one million books are distributed every month. The foundation has received countless prestigious awards for its accomplishments in children’s literacy and development.
It’s easy to sign up. So, give yourself and your grandchildren (up to age 5) the magical gift of reading. You will likely find yourself lost with your own newfound imagination.
By Bridget FitzPatrick
