San Mateo County Libraries launched Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library this month, offering free books by mail to children younger than 5.
“The Imagination Library of San Mateo County invites families to sign up for free, monthly books for children ages 0-5,” San Mateo County Libraries said in a press release.
Families can register online or by mail. The first book typically arrives within 8-12 weeks, with a new book delivered monthly thereafter.
According to the Foundation of San Mateo County Libraries, about 1,709 children in the county are eligible for the program.
Statewide, 77,061 children are enrolled in an affiliate program.
The Imagination Library was founded in 1995 by country music icon Dolly Parton in her home state of Tennessee.
“Dolly’s vision was to foster a love of reading among her county’s preschool children and their families,” according to the Imagination Library website.
The book-gifting program is offered around the world in partnership with local organizations and public libraries.
For more information, visit the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library website or the San Mateo County Libraries site.