Today, June 9th, marks a milestone worth celebrating - three years ago the Imagination Library of Washington statewide program was established, launching efforts across our state for children from birth to age five to register for a free monthly book from Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. Washington was the 11th state in the U.S. to become a statewide Imagination Library program in partnership with The Dollywood Foundation. What began as a bold step to give every child access to books has blossomed into a statewide movement that’s transforming early literacy, one story at a time.

Through our strong partnership with United Ways of the Pacific Northwest, Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), and Washington State Dept. of Children, Youth, & Families (DCYF), Imagination Library of Washington is now serving more than 111,000 young children with magical, inspirational books from the Imagination Library. Since our launch in 2022, Imagination Library of Washington has proudly delivered more than 4 million books to young children in every corner of our state. 

We’re deeply grateful for the incredible partnerships formed over the past three years that have helped expand access to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library across Washington. From the Washington State Department of Corrections and Washington Courts to Little Free Library, Timberland Regional Library, and Government Employees Health Association (G.E.H.A), each partner plays a vital role in getting books into the hands and hearts of young children. On August 15, 2023, we had the incredible joy of hosting none other than Dolly Parton herself at Tacoma’s Pantages Theatre. Her memorable visit marked a truly historic moment: celebrating the statewide expansion of the Imagination Library, now available to all children under five in all 39 counties across Washington.

Dolly Parton's Imagination Library is about more than just the delivery of a monthly book. It's a toddler eagerly opening the mailbox to find their name on a book, it's a bedtime routine strengthened by reading aloud, it's a parent or caregiver reconnecting with their child through shared stories, and it's a child starting kindergarten ready to learn, grow and thrive. 

"I think the Imagination Library is marvelous. It has really helped me to read more to my child. We now have books, which we didn't before. And the variety is amazing. Even if we had had books, I don't think I could've chosen the good quality and wonderful books that the Imagination Library chooses for us. We look forward to bedtime every night so we can all read together. Thank you so much." - Washington parent

As we look ahead, our mission is stronger than ever. We continue to fundraise, grow enrollment, and advocate for sustainable state funding to ensure no child ever misses out on this life-changing experience. To everyone who has supported our journey—thank you. You’ve helped us turn pages, spark imaginations, and open doors for thousands of children across Washington. Here’s to many more years of igniting a love of reading and learning for young children in Washington!

Want to help write our next chapter? Join us!

  • DONATE to support children receiving their monthly books

  • SHARE our story with friends, family, and colleagues

  • PARTNER with us as a local sponsor or advocate

Learn more about the Imagination Library of Washington and our impact by visiting www.imaginationlibrarywashington.org. 

Together, we’re building brighter futures—one book at a time.