Dolly Parton launched her Imagination Library idea in 1995, first reaching children living in the area where she grew up in East Tennessee. Her vision: to “foster a love of reading among her county’s preschool children and their families by providing them with the gift of a specially selected book each month.” Today, Dolly’s program gifts 1 million+ free books each month to children worldwide.
Thanks to the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and a partnership between local organizations, we’ve started our own new chapter in early childhood literacy across Ohio! Every child from birth to age five in Athens County can receive a new book mailed to them each month for free.
This countywide service is administered by the Athens County Public Libraries and funded by the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, with the Athens County Foundation providing matching local funds. Other community partnerships helping to make this service possible include Hocking Athens Perry Community Action, OhioHealth, Hocking College, and others.
*Note: Receiving your first book may take up to 2 months.
Questions? Contact Heather McElfresh.
