Celebrating the lasting impact of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library

Like many people around the world, at Children First we were very sad to hear that the incredible Dolly Parton has passed away. 

We were privileged and proud to partner with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library for five years, to help children across Scotland experience the joy of books, stories and reading together. 

Today, we’ve been reflected on the amazing impact of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. 

Through the partnership, more than 36,000 free books were shared with children under five in Scotland, helping families create special moments together while supporting early language, literacy and learning. 

Every month, children received a book addressed personally to them from Dolly, giving them the opportunity to develop a lifelong love of reading. Spending time reading together can spark conversations amongst families and create new worlds in children’s imaginations. 

Alongside the book-gifting programme, well-known supporters including Nicola Sturgeon and Michelle McManus shared recorded bedtime stories that were enjoyed by children and families across the country. 

At Children First, we know that strong relationships, positive experiences and opportunities to learn and grow can make a lasting difference in a child's life. The Imagination Library perfectly reflected that belief. 

Dolly Parton created the Imagination Library after being inspired by her father's experience of struggling with literacy and her conviction that every child deserves the opportunity to dream, learn and thrive through books. One we wholeheartedly agree with. Dolly was the epitome of putting children first.