Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library turns a new page this spring as the program celebrates a groundbreaking milestone in early childhood literacy research, while continuing to expand its reach and inspire a love of reading in children around the world.
Dolly’s childhood literacy program now gifts over 3.4 MILLION books each month and, as of March, 2026, the Imagination Library has gifted more than 314 million books to children across the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia and the Republic of Ireland.
International Study Reaffirms Impact of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has gifted millions of books to children from birth to age five. Now, a groundbreaking international study—the largest dataset ever collected on shared book reading—reaffirms the program’s powerful impact.
“My dream has always been to help children love books and love learning, no matter where they live," Dolly says. "It warms my heart to know this research shows the difference a book can make.”
Led by researcher Dr. Claire Galea, the study followed more than 86,000 caregivers across five countries over a twelve-month period, comparing families enrolled in the Imagination Library with those not yet receiving books.
The findings show that even a small number of books can create meaningful change. After receiving just 10 books, children in the program were significantly more likely to demonstrate stronger early literacy skills—such as vocabulary development and phonological awareness—helping to close gaps that often begin before a child ever enters the classroom.
Building Stronger Reading Habits and Family Connections
Beyond early literacy development, the study highlights the Imagination Library’s impact on everyday family life—helping to establish consistent reading routines and deepen engagement between children and caregivers.
Children enrolled in the program were far more likely to be read to regularly and to actively participate during shared reading experiences. Caregivers also reported more interactive reading behaviors, from talking about pictures to encouraging children to hold and explore books themselves.
Together, these moments add up—fostering not only stronger literacy skills, but also a lifelong love of reading and meaningful family traditions centered around books.
For further details, view the International Research Summary at https://imaginationlibrary.com/international-research/
Springtime Stories 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 through funding shared by Dolly and local community partners. Spring is a season of growth and new beginnings—making it the perfect time to nurture a child’s imagination through books.
Here are a few of the specially selected, age-appropriate books going out to registered children this spring:
Baby Touch: Farm
This playful touch-and-feel book from Ladybird engages babies while they discover the farm and spot all their favourite farm animals!
Sparkle and Splodge
This positive picture book by Neil Clark celebrates the importance of creative fun, making mistakes, and learning from others. A brilliant read-aloud before bedtime!
Sparkle and Splodge
This positive picture book by Neil Clark celebrates the importance of creative fun, making mistakes, and learning from others. A brilliant read-aloud before bedtime!
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.
