Indiana Rallies to Save Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library: A New Chapter for Young Readers

Imagine a world where every child, no matter their background, gets a free book in the mail every month. That’s the magic of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library—a program that’s been changing lives in Indiana. But when state funding for the program vanished earlier this year, Indiana’s First Lady, Maureen Braun, and communities across the state stepped up to keep the story alive. Let’s dive into this heartwarming tale of books, community spirit, and a little help from the “Queen of Country” herself.

What’s the Imagination Library?

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is like a fairy godmother for young readers. Since 1995, the program has mailed free, high-quality books to kids from birth until their fifth birthday. The goal? To spark a love for reading early—because studies show kids with books at home do better in school and beyond.

In Indiana, the program went statewide in 2023 thanks to former Governor Eric Holcomb, who invested $6 million. Local groups matched that funding, making sure over 26,000 kids in Allen County alone could get books. But when Governor Mike Braun took office, he cut the state’s share of the funding. That’s when the real adventure began.

First Lady to the Rescue

Governor Braun handed his wife, First Lady Maureen Braun, a new mission: save the Imagination Library. And she didn’t waste time. In June 2024, she launched a statewide fundraising campaign, calling it a “public-private partnership”—fancy talk for “teamwork between government and generous folks.”

“Reading opens up a world of imagination for kids,” Maureen Braun said in a video announcement. “Having books at home helps children succeed in school and throughout their lives.” Her plan? Rally philanthropists, businesses, and everyday Hoosiers to fill the $6 million gap.

The Dollywood Foundation, which runs the program, cheered her on. “We’re honored to work with First Lady Braun,” said Jeff Conyers, the foundation’s president. “Her passion ensures Indiana’s kids will keep getting these magical books.”

Local Heroes Shine in Fort Wayne

While the First Lady kicked off her statewide effort, folks in Allen County weren’t waiting around. The Clyde Theatre—a music venue in Fort Wayne—hosted “Nashville Thursdays,” a series of country music nights to raise money. And boy, did it work!

Fans of Dolly Parton, twangy tunes, and kids’ literacy donated over $5,870 in just four nights. That’s enough to send books to 190 children for a full year! “Our staff, neighbors, and even band members have kids in the program,” said Gregg Doyle, The Clyde’s director. “We had to help.”

Susan Baier, director of the Allen County Public Library (ACPL), was blown away. “People showed up in droves—donating at the theater, online, even folks who’d never heard of the program before,” she said. “The community’s generosity was incredible.”

The Race to Keep Books Coming

Here’s the catch: the Imagination Library isn’t a one-time expense. It costs

186,000ayeartoruninAllenCountyalone.Sofar,ACPLhasraised142,000—thanks to events like The Clyde’s—but they’re still short. And statewide? The challenge is even bigger.

Baier isn’t just focused on money, though. She wants every eligible child signed up. Right now, 6,600 kids in Allen County get books, but there are 26,000 who qualify. “We’ve got work to do,” she said.

Every month, ACPL gets a bill from the Dollywood Foundation for that month’s books. No funds? No books. That’s why steady donations are crucial. “It’s not just about saving the program,” Baier added. “It’s about growing it.”

How You Can Help

Want to join the fight for literacy? Here’s how:

1. Donate: Give to your local Imagination Library branch. Even $25 sends a year’s worth of books to one child.

2. Sign Up: Got a kid under five? Register them at imaginationlibrary.com. It’s free!

3. Spread the Word: Share the program with friends, schools, or community groups. Many families don’t know it exists.

Why This Matters

Books are more than just paper and ink. For kids, they’re portals to new worlds, confidence-builders, and tools for lifelong success. Dolly Parton started this program because she grew up poor and saw how hard it was for families to afford books. Now, Indiana’s leaders and communities are making sure her vision thrives.

“This isn’t just about reading,” said Maureen Braun. “It’s about giving every child a fair shot at a bright future.”

So, whether it’s a country music fundraiser, a corporate donation, or a grandma signing up her grandbaby, every effort counts. Together, Hoosiers are proving that when it comes to kids, there’s no such thing as a lost chapter.