LEWISHAM

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

Free books for Lewisham children aged under 5, every month from birth until their fifth birthday.

About the Imagination Library

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a free programme that gifts books to children. The programme was started by Dolly Parton in 1995. She was inspired by her father, who couldn’t read or write. The programme’s goal is to help children everywhere love reading.

This project is supported by national funding from the People’s Postcode Lottery and delivered in partnership with Dolly Parton’s charity, the Dollywood Foundation.

How does the Imagination Library work?

Once your child is registered, they will receive a free high-quality, age-appropriate book addressed to them in the mail each month, until their fifth birthday, completely free of charge.

All titles in the Imagination Library are published by Penguin Random House UK and carefully selected by a panel of experts in early childhood development and reading. Each title is allocated to a specific age group, ensuring the books are age appropriate.

This selection is refreshed regularly so families with multiple children will receive new books to enjoy. The frequency and duration of the Imagination Library’s book-gifting is what makes the programme unique and has a wide-ranging impact on communication, school readiness and literacy development.

Who can register?

Any child from birth to their 5th birthday living in Lewisham. If you have more than one child under five, each child may participate.

Where can I register?

You can register for the Imagination Library using our online form below.