Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is coming to Monterey County this summer, and your child could receive a free book by mail every single month.
Starting this summer, families across Monterey County can enroll their children — from birth through age five — in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a beloved program that mails one free, age-appropriate book per month directly to your door. There’s no cost, no catch, and no library card required.
What Is the Imagination Library?
Launched in 1995, the Imagination Library is one of the most respected early literacy programs in the world, having gifted more than 300 million books to children across the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, and Ireland. Research backs up what many parents already sense: books matter early. Studies show that children enrolled in the program are at least four times more likely to show stronger emerging literacy skills — including vocabulary and phonological awareness — compared to kids who aren’t enrolled. Even just 10 books can make a measurable difference.
Who’s Behind the Local Launch?
The program is coming to Monterey County through a collaboration led by First 5 Monterey County, Bright Beginnings Early Childhood Initiative, and Bright Futures Education Partnership, with seed funding generously provided by Taylor Farms. Outreach will prioritize families who face the greatest barriers to early learning resources, including low-income households, English language learners, families in rural areas, and Indigenous communities — though all children from birth to age five in Monterey County are eligible to enroll.
Why It Matters Here
Many families in Monterey County — particularly those in rural communities or navigating life in a second language — have limited access to age-appropriate books at home. This program meets families where they are, delivering books monthly and helping parents and caregivers build home libraries and create meaningful reading moments with their little ones.
How to Enroll Your Child
Monterey County has more than 34,000 children under age five — and every one of them is eligible. For more information on enrollment, click here.
For sponsorship information or other questions, contact Nina Alcaraz at First 5 Monterey County: nina@first5monterey.org or 831-402-6760 (call or text).
Know a family who could use this? Share this article — books are better when everyone has them.
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