Dolly Parton's 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 could not read or write. The programme’s goal is to help children everywhere love reading.
This project is supported by funds raised by players of People’s Postcode Lottery and delivered by Dolly Parton’s charity, The Dollywood Foundation.
How it works
Registered children will receive a free, high-quality, age-appropriate book addressed to them in the post each month, until their 5th birthday.
All books 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. The selections are 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.
The first book every child will receive, regardless of age, will be The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter. This is the welcome book introducing your family to the programme. After that, the books your child receives will be based on their year of birth.
When you receive the package, you'll find a QR code that you can scan to find tips on how to enjoy books with your child.
Who can take part
Any child aged under 5 living in Camden can register to join the Imagination Library.
If you have more than one child under 5, each child may register.
How to register
You can register online using the Imagination Library’s form.
What happens next
After you sign up, books will be sent to your home in the post. The package will be addressed to your child, which can make it feel more personal and exciting.
The books are ordered one month in advance, so there will be a delay before the first book arrives. For example, if you register in November 2025 your first book will arrive in January 2026
If you move or want to cancel
If you’re moving home or no longer want to receive books, let us know by email at imaginationlibrary@camden.gov.uk.
Using your child's information
We need to collect the following information about your child:
date of birth, so the books they receive are age-appropriate
home address, so we can post the books directly to them
name, so we can address the package to the child
For more information, view the Imagination Library privacy policy.
If you have any questions
If you have any questions about the Imagination Library or need help registering your child, contact us by email at imaginationlibrary@camden.gov.uk.