Dolly Parton’s heartwarming legacy continues to grow as her beloved Imagination Library program takes root in Will County, Illinois. The country music legend’s free book gifting initiative will now deliver monthly literary treasures to the doorsteps of local children proving that Dolly’s greatest hits aren’t just songs; they’re life-changing opportunities for young minds.
Starting this week, Will County families can enroll children from birth to age five to receive carefully selected, age-appropriate books each month at no cost. This magical program comes through a partnership between County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant, the Will County Center for Economic Development, and Dolly’s foundation.
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As Dolly shares in heartfelt interviews, the Imagination Library was inspired by her father’s inability to read. “I wanted to do something special for him” she explains, her voice thick with emotion; what began as a local effort has now distributed over 200 million books worldwide becoming Dolly’s proudest achievement beyond music.
The C.W. Avery Family YMCA in Plainfield will host a special kickoff celebration complete with story time and activities. While the event is invitation-only, the book program is open to all Will County children. “This isn’t just about literacy,” explains one organizer “it’s about showing every child they matter.”
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Research shows Imagination Library participants enter kindergarten with stronger readiness skills and maintain academic advantages. The program’s secret? Carefully curated books that grow with children; from colorful board books for babies to inspiring stories for preschoolers.
Registration is simple at willcounty.org. As Dolly says in her trademark warm tone: “There’s nothing like seeing a child’s face light up when their special book arrives.” Now Will County families can experience that magic monthly, thanks to a country star who believes every child deserves their own library.