What Is Dolly Parton's Imagination Library And How Is It Helping Young Readers In Wakefield?

Picture this, a special delivery arrives, but it's not for mum or dad. It's a colourful book, addressed to the smallest person in the house. This has been the reality for thousands of families across Wakefield for years, all thanks to a brilliant scheme. As of 08 August 2025, the district is celebrating a huge milestone as its biggest-ever group of young bookworms graduates from Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, a programme that has been quietly transforming early childhood literacy since it launched in the area. It's a moment that marks a massive achievement in the district's dedication to helping little ones with their speech, language, and communication from the very beginning.

A graduation of a different kind

When you think of graduation, you probably imagine students in long robes throwing caps in the air. But in Wakefield, things are a little different. Recently, special graduation events took place at Airedale and Pontefract Libraries to celebrate the achievements of over 337 children who are turning five this year. These children are the latest cohort to complete their journey with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. Families gathered to celebrate not just finishing the programme, but the love of reading it has sparked. It's a party to honour the simple, magical moments shared between parents and children over a pile of books. This isn't just about turning pages; it's about giving children the confidence and skills they need before they even step into a classroom. The programme has become a cornerstone for early years development in the community.

So, what's this amazing library all about?

It's a pretty simple but powerful idea. Started by the country music legend herself, Dolly Parton's Imagination Library gifts a free, high-quality book every single month to registered children, from the day they're born until their fifth birthday. That's 60 books in total to build their very own library at home. Imagine the excitement of a toddler getting their own post! Since the scheme launched in Wakefield in 2017, it has been a massive success. Just look at the numbers:

• Nearly 70,000 books have been gifted to children across the district.
• Almost 2,540 children have benefited from the magic of a new story arriving on their doorstep.

This initiative is about making books a normal, fun part of everyday life. It removes barriers, like cost or access to a library, and puts stories directly into the hands of families. It's a commitment to early years learning that has had a visible impact on young readers and their communication skills. The steady stream of books encourages a routine of reading that helps with everything from vocabulary to concentration.

More than just a good story

Getting a free book is great, but the real magic is what happens when a family sits down to read it together. That's something Cllr Margaret Isherwood, Wakefield Council's Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, is passionate about. She said, "This programme is about giving every child the best possible start in life. It's heartening to see how much families value receiving books through the post - it's more than just reading, it's about bonding, learning, and growing together." And the feedback from families proves it's working. The programme helps build crucial speech and language skills that are the foundation for all future learning. One parent shared their experience: "The Imagination Library sparked a love of reading for our daughter. She developed speech quickly and was exceeding at phonics in reception - this is down to her love of books." For anyone who isn't sure, phonics is just the method of learning to read by matching sounds to letters. Getting a head start on that makes a huge difference when school begins. Cllr Margaret Isherwood added, "We've received great feedback from families. We're proud to support a scheme that delivers real impact in our communities."

A new chapter for the Wakefield programme

After years of success, the scheme is evolving to make an even bigger impact where it's needed most. The focus is shifting slightly to ensure its long-term sustainability and to offer targeted support. Now, the programme will specifically help children who might benefit from an extra boost. Following their 2 to 2.5-year health check, if a health visitor feels a child could use some help with their communication skills, they will be eligible to register for the programme. This smart, new targeted approach is designed to help close any development gaps early on, giving every child the chance to catch up and flourish. It's about being proactive and making sure support gets to the families who need it. To keep this amazing programme going, the community's help is now needed. The focus on sustainability means that donations are invited to fund the books directly. Local businesses, community groups, and individuals are being asked to invest in the future of Wakefield's young people. It's a chance for the whole community to come together and support the next generation of readers. Any partners who get involved will not only get great brand visibility and community goodwill but will also be making a direct, positive contribution to the lives of children in their area. All the money raised goes straight into buying more books, ensuring the story continues for many more young readers.