Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library turns a new page this summer as the program celebrates new milestones in early childhood literacy, while continuing its expansion efforts to inspire a love of reading in children all over the world.
Dolly’s childhood literacy program now gifts over 3 MILLION books each month and, as of June 2025, the Imagination Library has gifted over 284 million books to children across the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia and the Republic of Ireland.
Canada Marks a Milestone Moment and Honours Indigenous Voices
In Canada, the Imagination Library recently marked a major milestone: more than 4 million books have been gifted to families nationwide since the Canadian program launched in 2006. This achievement reflects decades of work by hundreds of local partners and volunteers across the country.
In 2025, the program continues its commitment to representation and inclusivity with a strong focus on Indigenous storytelling. Of the 70 books selected for the Canada Book Selection, eight are authored or illustrated by Indigenous Canadians—each one a reflection of the rich cultural heritage and diversity of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities.
Oregon Achieves Statewide Expansion of the Imagination Library
In Oregon, the Imagination Library has hit a historic milestone one year after its statewide launch. Now every child under age five in Oregon is eligible to receive a free Imagination Library book each month, thanks to a grassroots effort backed by state and local partners.
In just one year, enrollment has grown from about 54,000 to over 65,000 children – an increase of more than 11,000 young readers. Enrollment is available for children from birth to age five in every ZIP code in Oregon, and parents can register their child online anytime at imaginationlibrary.com.
Bilingual English/Spanish Book Collection Expands to 16 More States
After successfully launching its bilingual English/Spanish book program in California in 2023, the Imagination Library expanded the collection to five additional states in 2024: Tennessee, D.C., North Carolina, Ohio, and Delaware. This summer, the bilingual English/Spanish book collection is rolling out to 16 more states!
Now, families in Washington, Colorado, Montana, Kansas, Arkansas, Alabama, Louisiana, Kentucky, Maine, Illinois, Oregon, Indiana, Oklahoma, Missouri, West Virginia, and New Mexico can opt to receive books in both English and Spanish every month—from enrollment until their child’s fifth birthday. Parents can also select their preferred language for all program communications. By continuing to expand its bilingual offerings, the Imagination Library takes an important step toward providing equitable access to high-quality children’s books for families of all languages.
Summertime Books to Spark Imagination
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is dedicated to inspiring a love of reading and learning by gifting books, free of charge, to families via funding shared by Dolly and local community partners. Summer is a wonderful time of year to spark the imagination, not only by spending more time playing, but also by spending more time reading! Here are a few of the specially selected, age-appropriate books going out to registered children this summer.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar's First Summer
In this vibrant book by Eric Carle, join the Very Hungry Caterpillar on a sunny summer day and enjoy everything the season has to offer!
Big Bear Hug
Funny yet powerful, Nicholas Oldland's contemporary fable captivates little ones with a heartwarming story that highlights the incredible power of a simple hug.
Dog Loves Fairy Tales
Take your little one on a dog adventure full of fairytale magic in this book from Louise Yates, filled with friendship, beloved characters, and enchanting tales.
New to the Imagination Library?
Check availability in your area to register a child, sign up to receive a notification when the Imagination Library becomes available to you or learn more about how to Start A Program in your area.
