Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

Indiana’s Dolly Parton Imagination Library program is nearing its fundraising goal after state funding for the early literacy initiative was cut in 2025.

Former Gov. Eric Holcomb funded half of the program's statewide expansion with $6 million in state funding in 2023. Gov. Mike Braun announced in February his administration would eliminate that support.

The Allen County Public Library Foundation received a $10,000 grant to support Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library after the loss of funding from the state.

Indiana First Lady Maureen Braun is launching a fundraising initiative to keep the Dolly Parton Imagination Library going statewide. It comes more than two months after Gov. Mike Braun tasked his wife with keeping the program alive.

In 85 counties in Indiana, all children under age 5 can register to read free books delivered to their home through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. That’s 31 more counties than a year ago.