Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Expands to Ventura County

A beloved literacy program is officially planting roots in Ventura County. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library aims to provide free books to children from birth to age five.

The program sends high-quality, age-appropriate books directly to a child's home every month. This initiative is designed to inspire a lifelong love of reading regardless of family income.

Local leaders have set a bold goal to raise $200,000 to launch the program. Once this milestone is reached, registration can begin for the county’s youngest residents.

The State of California has committed to matching every local donation dollar-for-dollar. This means a $15.50 gift provides a new book to a child every month for an entire year.

Program Director Kathleen Turner is leading the fundraising effort. She noted that about 44,000 children across the county will eventually be eligible to participate.

The program offers a thoughtful touch for the area's diverse community. Families can choose between English-only editions or bilingual English-Spanish books.

State Senator Henry Stern has voiced strong support for the initiative. He emphasized the importance of early literacy in helping children succeed in school and life.

Local residents can support the movement through the nonprofit Burnon Inc. Every tax-deductible contribution helps build a foundation for future readers.

Dolly Parton herself expressed excitement about the California expansion. She hopes the program will spark dreams and imagination in children across the state.

When the local funding is secured, Ventura County will join over 30 other California counties in the network. Enrollment is expected to open later this year.