Early Literacy Program

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is an early literacy program that mails age-appropriate books to registered children on a monthly basis. The books are mailed in the child's name in an effort to create a sense of excitement about getting new books. Children can receive the books from birth to their fifth birthday, regardless of family income. DPIL is often coordinated through a local nonprofit organization, such as a library. The sponsoring organization selects a geographic area to target for book distribution and raises the funds to cover the cost of the books. Parents can also register children online.

A Life Built on Giving Back

Dolly's philanthropy was never limited to one cause. Throughout her life, she supported education, children's health, disaster relief, literacy and communities in need. Her generosity reflected something she often spoke about: when you have the ability to help someone, you should help.Perhaps that is what makes her legacy so powerful.Dolly never forgot where she came from.Her voice may no longer fill a concert hall, but her words will continue to live in her music. Her stories will continue to be told. Through those books, she gave children something much bigger.A reason to dream. A chance to imagine. An opportunity to learn .And a reminder that their future can be bigger than they ever imagined.

Read Full Blog

Reach Out and Read works through medical provider offices to promote early literacy and school readiness with the distribution of new books to children starting at the six-month checkup, and by talking with parents about the importance of reading aloud to their children. Reach Out and Read utilizes the relationship between parents and medical providers to encourage the development of critical early reading skills in young children.