What is Dolly Parton's Imagination Library?

Dolly Parton's Imagination Library is a renowned literacy program that was founded by the legendary Dolly Parton. This initiative is dedicated to fostering a love for reading among children from birth to age five.

Every month, enrolled children receive a carefully selected, age-appropriate book mailed directly to their homes, absolutely free of charge.

Why is this program important?

Reading regularly with your children during their early years gives them the biggest boost toward a successful education and future. United Way works with the community so everyone, everywhere can thrive. Dolly Parton's Imagination Library and United Way share common goals of enhancing early learning experiences, nurturing creativity, and promoting building blocks of literacy thorough high-quality books.

Who is eligible?

All children under the age of 5 who live in Sangamon and Menard Counties are eligible. The program is completely free to families. Your child can look forward to a new and exciting book in the mail each month until they turn five years old as long as you live within a covered geographic area. 

If you live outside of Sangamon or Menard County, you can visit this website to see if the program is available in your area.

I WANT TO...

Enrolling your child in Dolly Parton's Imagination Library is easy and free!

*Please allow eight to twelve weeks for your little one's first book to arrive. Subsequent books will arrive monthly

The success of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library relies on the support of our community.

You can make a lasting impact by sponsoring a child's enrollment in the program. $26 will provide one year of books for a child.

Your contribution will not only provide a child with the gift of reading, but also contribute to the overall literacy development in Central Illinois.

More comfortable sending a check?

Checks may be mailed to: 
United Way of Central Illinois
1999 Wabash Avenue, Suite 107
Springfield, IL. 62704
*Please indicate that your gift is to be designated Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.

Thank you!

The Imagination Library is made possible through a shared funding model. Dolly and the Dollywood Foundation cover many overhead costs and administration needs. Local programs like United Way of Central Illinois secure the funding for the cost of books and postage.

Local funding for Dolly Parton's Imagination Library in Sangamon and Menard Counties is provided by: 

• United Way of Central Illinois generous donors
• The State of Illinois
• American Business Club of Springfield
• Athens Lions Club
• Germeraad Family Fund of the Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln
• Kentucky Fried Chicken Foundation
• Loken Family Fund of the Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln
• Petersburg Women's Club
• SCHEELS
• United Way Communityworks Fund at the Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln