We all understand the vital role early childhood development plays in shaping our future, yet many families lack the essential tools and resources needed for their children to thrive. Did you know that 88% of children who are not reading by kindergarten continue to struggle with language skills in grade 3? That’s why we’re so excited about the impact we can make together!

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What is Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library?

Dolly Parton’s inspiring vision was to ignite a love of reading among preschoolers and their families. Driven by the memory of her father, who never had the chance to learn to read and write, Dolly wanted every child to have access to high-quality books, no matter their family's income. Launched in 1996, this incredible initiative has blossomed into a national and global program managed by the Dollywood Foundation and is proudly brought to you by the United Way of Whitman County.

At United Way of Whitman County, we are passionate about childhood development and are thrilled to offer Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to children in our community—at no cost to their families!

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How does it work?

Through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, each enrolled child receives one high-quality, age-appropriate book every month from birth until their 5th birthday. For many families, this is a wonderful gift that might otherwise be out of reach. You can help us expand this program by sponsoring a child for just $26 a year!

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Who chooses the books?

The prestigious Blue Ribbon Book Selection Committee—a group of early childhood literacy experts—carefully reviews hundreds of potential titles each year to ensure only the best make it into the hands of our children.

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Who can receive books?

Thanks to our dedicated volunteers, any child from birth to age 5 living in Whitman County is eligible to receive these wonderful books.

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How much do the books cost and who pays for the books?

The best part? There’s absolutely no cost to the families receiving these books! As the proud local affiliate, United Way of Whitman County covers all expenses, including the books, postage, and handling to deliver them right to children’s homes. This invaluable program thrives thanks to our generous community, with heartfelt appreciation to our primary sponsors, Ed and Beatriz Schweitzer, as well as the Pullman Kiwanis for their annual gift.

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If you’d like to join us in nurturing a love of reading in Whitman County, please visit our Donate page or click the link below. Together, we can help our children reach their full potential!