Alabama Celebrates Two Million Free Books Delivered
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library will have delivered two million free books to children across the State in December
This December, Alabama will reach a milestone in early childhood learning: Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library will have delivered two million free books to children across the State since its launch Statewide.
“Alabama is putting our children first. Our parents are our first teachers, and by supporting early learning at home, we are helping families build strong foundations long before a child ever enters the classroom,” said Governor Kay Ivey. “I am proud that every young learner in all 67 counties has the opportunity to participate. We will continue making early literacy a priority–with two million books now in the hands of Alabama children and more to come.”
The two-million mark reflects a multi-year effort by the Ivey administration to expand access to reading materials for all Alabama families. In January 2023—during her inaugural address for her second full term—Governor Ivey first expressed her wish to partner with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, saying the State “must encourage our children to open books during their earliest developmental stages.”
By August 2023, the State formally launched its expansion plan, working with local organizations to bring the program into more counties. At that time, parts of the State still lacked access to the service.
In a 2025 update, State officials confirmed the program now reaches every County in Alabama, giving all eligible children the chance to receive free monthly books.
The program now covers children from birth to age five. According to State officials, more than 106,000 youngsters are enrolled across Alabama.
Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education Secretary Ami Brooks praised the achievement as a product of teamwork across local communities, State agencies and families. “Reaching two million books in just over two years demonstrates the dedication of our State leaders, communities, partners and families. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is helping families foster a love of reading,” Brooks said.
The program is open to all eligible children—including those in foster care—making sure some of Alabama’s most vulnerable young learners get the same chance for early-literacy support.
Parents who want to sign up can visit the official registration site online at THIS LINK to begin receiving books at no cost.
