A new international study found children enrolled in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library show stronger early literacy skills, including greater interest in books and increased participation during shared reading.
The findings include children in Patrick County, where the program has been operating since 2023 and currently serves 395 children.
The study analyzed responses from more than 86,000 caregivers across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and Ireland. Researchers compared families enrolled in the program with those who were not.
Results showed children in the United States were significantly more likely to show interest in books, join in during reading time and initiate shared reading when enrolled in Imagination Library. The study also found caregivers were more likely to engage children by discussing pictures, encouraging participation and building consistent reading routines.
Rebecca Adcock, executive director of the Patrick County Chamber of Commerce, said the program helps remove barriers to early learning.
“The Dolly Parton Imagination Library is the most equitable program to help children build reading skills that will benefit them later in life,” Adcock said.
Dolly Parton launched the program more than 30 years ago in honor of her father, who could not read or write. The initiative provides one free, age-appropriate book each month to enrolled children from birth to age 5.
Locally, Patrick County Imagination Library supported by the Patrick County Chamber of Commerce, One Family Productions, Stuart Rotary and Step Inc.
