Dolly Parton's Imagination Library of Kansas can now collect donations for book gifting
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Gov. Laura Kelly signed into law on Friday a bipartisan bill allow the state to collect private funds to support Dolly Parton's Imagination Library.
"Well Kansas, we did it! Let's celebrate by registering as many children and families as we can to receive the gift of Imagination Library books right to their home each month," Parton said in a statement via the governor's office. "Together, we can inspire children across Kansas to love books and reading, and that's a gift that will last a lifetime."
Kelly signed Senate Bill 195, which passed the Legislature unanimously. It was introduced last year by Sen. J.R. Claeys, R-Salina.
It authorizes the Kansas Children's Cabinet to establish a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation to fundraise and receive donations, gifts and grants to support the Imagination Library.
"Strengthening children's literacy skills and ensuring parents can access these resources is crucial to early childhood development," Kelly said in a statement. "We know that children's earliest years shape their academic and social outcomes for the rest of their lives. I'm proud to sign this bill to expand the reach of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library and equip more Kansas families with books."
Allowing private donations can further expand the reach of the book gifting program, which was expanded statewide last year after the Legislature increased funding.
"We are excited to take the next step so that we can fully engage with the private sector and fundraise to ensure the longevity and sustainability of this worthwhile program," said Melissa Rooker, the children's cabinet executive director.
The governor announced in July that Kansas children can participate in the program and receive on free book per month until their fifth birthday. Then in August, Parton visited Kansas to celebrate the statewide expansion of the program.
As of March 1, Kansas had 74,720 children enrolled in the program, nearly 26,000 of which were enrolled after the statewide expansion in July.
"Reading is the single most effective way to open a world of opportunity for our children," said Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill. "Having three sons, all of whom are enrolled in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library Program, I believe that all children in Kansas should have the same opportunity to join the Dolly Parton Imagination Library as my sons have. I personally have seen the impact of this program, and this is a win for Kansas."
Parents can enroll children in the Imagination Library via the Kansas Children's Cabinet online at kschildrenscabinet.org/imaginationlibrary.
Jason Alatidd is a Statehouse reporter for the Topeka Capital-Journal. He can be reached by email at jalatidd@gannett.com. Follow him on X @Jason_Alatidd.
This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Kansas expands Dolly Parton Imagination Library book gifting program
