Kentucky legislators seek to close gaps in Dolly Parton's Imagination Library

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — A program putting free books into the hands of Kentucky’s youngest readers could soon reach even more families.

State lawmakers are backing an effort to expand Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, the beloved initiative founded by Dolly Parton that mails a new book each month to children from birth to age 5.

The push comes through a resolution sponsored by Louisville Sen. Cassie Chambers Armstrong. It calls on state agencies to find new ways to boost enrollment — especially among children in foster care, low-income families and communities where participation has lagged.

Right now, only about half of Kentucky’s eligible children are signed up.

Supporters said expanding the program could help close early learning gaps and set more kids up for success before they even step into a classroom.

The resolution now moves to the full House for a vote.