Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
We are so excited to partner with the Ohio Governor’s Office and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to bring free, high-quality books to young children in Defiance County.
Through this program, children from birth to age five receive a free, age-appropriate book mailed directly to their home every month. There is no cost to families, the United Way of Defiance County proudly covers the cost so local kids can build their own home libraries and fall in love with reading early.
We are proud to support this program and the important role early literacy plays in a child’s growth and development.
Why Early Literacy Matters
The first five years of a child’s life are critical for brain development and language growth. Having books at home and reading together regularly helps children develop vocabulary, imagination, and the skills they need to be ready for kindergarten and beyond. Programs like Imagination Library help create lifelong readers and stronger communities.
Who Is Eligible
Children are eligible if they:
- Live in Defiance County
- Are under the age of 5
- Have not yet started kindergarten
Once enrolled, your child will receive a new book every month until their fifth birthday.
How to Enroll
Enrolling is quick and easy! All you need to do is sign your child up. You can enroll in one of two ways:
Register online here or print and fill out a paper application here.
Sponsor a Child
Want to help inspire a love of reading for even more local children? Community support makes this program possible. When you sponsor a child, you help provide an entire year of books delivered right to a child’s mailbox.
Your support helps ensure that every child in Defiance County has access to books at home, no matter their family’s income.
Donate here and be sure to select "Dolly Parton's Imagination Library under the "Choose a Campaign" tab!