United Way of Putnam County,OH:

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

The Imagination Library program was started in 1995 by Dolly Parton because she wanted every child birth to five years of age to have his or her own library of books. Dolly understood the importance of exposing children to reading at an early age, so she began sending books monthly, free of charge, to kids in her county. Thanks to a number of local citizens committed to providing resources that improve literacy in our community —the Imagination Library was brought to the families of Putnam County in September 2003.

All Putnam County children from birth to five years of age are eligible to participate in the book program, free of charge, regardless of family income. 

Books are mailed to participating children once a month until they reach five years of age. Each book is age appropriate. The selection of books changes a bit every year, but several classics will always be included. Examples: The Little Engine That Could is always the first book received, and the final book, arriving the month of the child’s 5^th birthday, is Look Out Kindergarten, Here I Come. Other favorites include: The Poky Little Puppy, The Tale of Peter Rabbit, Favorite Finger Rhymes, Little Cloud, The Owl and The Pussycat, and The Gingerbread Man.

Frequently asked questions:

When will the child receive his/her books?

Books will begin arriving at the child's home about six to eight weeks after registration. The books will continue to be sent until the child turns five.

Are books available in Spanish?

The Dollywood Foundation selects the book titles each year, and bilingual books are included for everyone in the program based on the availability from their publisher. Most children will receive at least one bilingual book each year they are enrolled. However, even if a parent cannot read English, telling the story by looking at the pictures will increase the child’s vocabulary.

Sounds great, how do I sign up?

Register online with the link below, or visit the office of the United Way of Putnam County to complete a registration form. Call for more details. 419-523-4505

How can I help?

The Imagination Library program is funded entirely by donations. If you'd like to sponsor a child for a year, donate $27 today! Gifts are accepted to honor birthdays, anniversaries, and in memoriam.

Support this program via our secure online payment system:
 

Or checks can be sent to:
United Way of Putnam County
P.O. Box 472
Ottawa, OH 45875
Note: Make the check payable to “United Way of Putnam County” with “Imagination Library” on the memo line.

Thank you to our sponsors

We would like to thank the following organizations for annually supporting the Imagination Library program at the “Primary Sponsorship” level.  Fraternal Order of Eagles # 2234, Leipsic United Methodist Church, Ottawa Kiwanis, Putnam County Optimists, Friends of the Leipsic Library, DRC Holdings Inc., Paulding-Putnam Electric Co-Op, and Ronald McDonald House Charities. THANK YOU!

Register a Putnam County child here: