Linden, New Jersey, has taken a historic step for families and children by becoming the first community in the Garden State to host Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. The program, which began twenty years ago, delivers a free, age‑appropriate book each month to every child from birth until they turn five.
Local partnership brings books to families
Theresa Villani, president of Friends of Linden Library, explained, “We give a free book every month from birth until the age of five to people who live in our community.” The initiative is made possible through the generosity of private donors and local nonprofit organizations that partner with the town’s public library.
When children enroll, they keep each book they receive, building a personal collection that encourages a lifelong love of reading. “If you give children their own books, there’s a sense of ownership and agency over how they spend their time,” Villani said.
Community response
The library’s children’s room now features a life‑sized portrait of Dolly Parton, greeting young readers as they explore the shelves. Library director Josh Melissari noted the excitement, “You can just see the joy in their eyes when they’re running around the stacks, picking items, and taking twenty books home in addition to the monthly Imagination Library book.”
Parents have praised the program for its impact on early literacy. Many families report that the regular influx of books has sparked daily reading routines and strengthened bonds between parents and children.
Enduring legacy
Although Dolly Parton herself is not directly involved in the day‑to‑day operations, the program’s structure ensures it will continue long after her personal involvement. “It has been independent of Dolly Parton herself. It has plans to go on. It’s not going to stop with Dolly,” Villani affirmed.
Parton’s own words echo the program’s mission: “If you can read, you can teach yourself anything.” By providing consistent access to books, the Imagination Library aims to give every child in Linden the tools to succeed academically and personally.
How to enroll
Families interested in joining can register through the Linden Public Library website or by visiting the library in person. Enrollment is free, and once registered, children will receive their first book shortly after their birth date.
The launch of the Imagination Library in Linden underscores the town’s commitment to supporting families, fostering a love of reading, and investing in the next generation’s education. As more communities watch Linden’s example, the hope is that similar programs will spread across New Jersey, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to open a book and a world of possibilities.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
