Kentucky Saves Dolly Parton's Imagination Library Funding

State steps in to continue free book program for young readers after federal cuts.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 10:16pm

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A striking black silhouette of a young child's head in profile, reading a book, set against a background of bold red and white geometric shapes in an abstract, minimalist style.Kentucky's investment in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library will keep the beloved book gifting program running for young readers across the state.Lexington Today

The Kentucky state government has stepped in to save the Dolly Parton Imagination Library program, a free book gifting initiative that provides one book per month to children from birth to age 5. The program was facing potential funding cuts at the federal level, but Kentucky has allocated state funds to ensure the program can continue operating statewide.

Why it matters

The Imagination Library has been a beloved and impactful early childhood literacy program in Kentucky for over 20 years, distributing millions of books to young readers. Maintaining this program is crucial for promoting reading skills and school readiness, especially in underserved communities.

The details

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear announced that the state will allocate $2.5 million in funding to continue the Imagination Library program statewide after the federal government proposed cutting its support. The program, founded by country music icon Dolly Parton, has provided over 150 million books to children across the U.S. and in several other countries.

  • The Imagination Library program launched in Kentucky in 2006.
  • In 2023, the federal government proposed cutting funding for the program.
  • On March 29, 2026, Kentucky announced it would provide $2.5 million to sustain the program.

The players

Dolly Parton

A legendary country music singer-songwriter who founded the Imagination Library book gifting program.

Andy Beshear

The Governor of Kentucky, who announced the state's commitment to funding the Imagination Library program.

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What they’re saying

“We think it's important.”

— Andy Beshear, Governor of Kentucky

What’s next

The Imagination Library program will continue operating statewide in Kentucky with the new $2.5 million in annual funding from the state government.

The takeaway

This decision by Kentucky to preserve the Imagination Library program demonstrates the state's commitment to early childhood education and literacy, ensuring that all young Kentuckians have access to high-quality books and resources to support their development.