Dolly Parton's Imagination Library

What is Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library?

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a book gifting program that mails free, high-quality books to children from birth to age five, no matter their family’s income.

After launching in 1995, the program grew quickly. First books were only distributed to children living in Sevier County, Tennessee where Dolly grew up. It became such a success that in 2000 a national replication effort was underway. By 2003, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library had mailed one million books. It would prove to be the first of many millions of books sent to children around the world.

The Friends of the O'Fallon Public Library, in partnership with the United Way of Greater St. Louis, are proud to bring this program to local residents.

Who Qualifies?

All children residing within the 62269 zip code from birth to age five are eligible for the program. There is absolutely no cost to the family to enroll as this effort funded by generous donors throughout our community.

Why This Program?

Research shows that reading aloud is the single most important thing you can do to help a child prepare for reading and learning. The number of words that a child knows on entering kindergarten is a key predictor of his or her future success.

How does it work?

All it takes is $25 to mail a child one book per month for an entire year.  The Friends of the O'Fallon Public Library have committed to funding 100 kids in 2022, with hopes of increasing that number as donations and fundraising initiatives allow.  Each year we aim to grow the number of children we can support through this initiative.  Your generous gift can help us fulfill this mission.  

For only $25 you or your organization can sponsor a child for an entire year. A gift of $100 dollars ensures that 4 children will receive a new book in their mailbox each month. Click the Donate button to give now.  

As a tax-exempt (501c3) organization, your contribution may be deductible to the extent allowed by law.  No goods or services were provided in exchange for this donation.