Dolly Parton's Imagination Library - about the program
About the Program
"If I can help just one child realise his or her dreams, then all of my dreams will have come true."Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton's Imagination Library is an exciting early literacy initiative, giving children the chance to reach their full potential. Every month until their 5th birthday, children receive a high-quality, age-appropriate book, each especially chosen by experts in childhood education. While building a lasting love of books, the program is also ensuring children start school with the skills needed to succeed.
How the Imagination Library began
Dolly Parton has always been aware of the importance of reading and writing. Growing up in the hills of East Tennessee, she saw firsthand the lifelong struggles some of her friends and family faced as a result of illiteracy. Dolly's vision was to foster a love of reading from an early age by providing children with a monthly book. In 1996 she launched the Imagination Library in her home county, delivering quality books directly to children's homes. In doing so, she gave children the chance to experience the magic of stories and to develop an early love of reading, regardless of their family's income.
The Story So Far
Since its inception, the Imagination Library has reached more than 1 million children across the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and now Australia. Statistics show that the program drastically improves early child-hood literacy, which is why our aim is to extend the program to as many communities as possible.
A Lifelong Impact
The research shows that almost 90% of children who are poor readers in year 1, remain poor readers in year 4. Sadly these children are less likely to complete school, and more likely to fall into poverty later in life.
Early intervention is critical, with children acquiring early literacy skills from birth. The Imagination Library supports children to learn these vital skills, including how to identify letters, numbers and shapes, story comprehension, and how to handle books. With your help, we can ensure no child starts behind.
Support your local library!
Supporting a local Imagination Library is a powerful way to make lasting change in the lives of the most vulnerable children in your community. Each child enrolled in the program receives a book every month until their 5th birthday. Thanks to the tireless work of local champions, these books are provided free to children. But our community partners need support to continue this life-changing work.
Donate now to give children in your community the chance to reach their full potential. Thank you.
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