MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WDNews) — Alabama is closing out the year with a big win for early literacy. Governor Kay Ivey announced Monday that Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library will surpass two million books mailed to children statewide by December.
The governor called it a major moment for families across Alabama.
“Alabama is putting our children first. Our parents are our first teachers, and by supporting early learning at home, we are helping families build strong foundations long before a child ever enters the classroom,” Governor Ivey said. “I am proud that every young learner in all 67 counties has the opportunity to participate. We will continue making early literacy a priority – with two million books now in the hands of Alabama children and more to come.”
This milestone comes after a two-year push to bring the program to every corner of the state. Ivey first announced her intention to partner with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library during her January 2023 inaugural address, emphasizing the need to “encourage our children to open books during their earliest developmental stages.”
By August 2023, Alabama rolled out the statewide expansion, and in her 2025 state of the state address, Ivey confirmed full availability in all 67 counties.
State leaders say the results speak for themselves. More than 106,000 children are now enrolled, each receiving a free, age-appropriate book mailed directly to their home every month. The program also covers children in foster care, making sure vulnerable young readers aren’t left out.
Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education Secretary Ami Brooks said the progress shows what statewide teamwork can achieve.
“Reaching two million books in just over two years demonstrates the dedication of our state leaders, communities, partners and families. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is helping families foster a love of reading,” Brooks said.
Parents can sign up their children, from birth to age five, by visiting ImaginationLibrary.com — and start receiving monthly books at no cost.
