A family reads a book together that they received through United Way California Capital Region, which runs through the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Yolo County. Photo courtesy of United Way California Capital Region

WEST SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) – West Sacramento children can receive one free book each month from birth until their fifth birthday, regardless of family income level, through United Way California Capital Region, which runs Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Yolo County.

All children ages newborn through 5 in Yolo County are eligible for the program. For more information and to sign up, visit yourlocalunitedway.org/dolly-parton-imagination-library. 

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Yolo County is part of the local United Way’s work to help children excel in school and ensure youth realize their full potential. 

“Our families tell us how excited the kids get each month when they open the mailbox and find a book ‘from Dolly.’ It’s such a great way to get kids enthusiastic about reading at a young age,” said Edward King, chief program officer of United Way California Capital Region. “We know that when kids enjoy reading, they are more likely to excel in it, which sets the foundation for success in school.”   

Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a book gifting program that mails free high-quality books to children from birth to age 5, no matter their family’s income. The program began in Sevier County, Tenn., where Parton grew up and has since expanded internationally, donating more than 200 million books since its inception. United Way California Capital Region runs the program in Yolo County. 

United Way California Capital Region has been a driving force across the region for more than 100 years, listening, responding and taking comprehensive action to meet local needs. From advancing youth opportunities and helping children excel in school to strengthening local communities and investing in families’ financial security and health, United Way mobilizes communities to build a future where everyone can reach their full potential and thrive.

Working across Amador, El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento and Yolo counties, the local United Way provides books and literacy tutoring, addresses housing and food security, leads the region’s largest tax-preparation initiative, works with foster youth across school districts, launched the region’s first guaranteed-income program and leads the Community Schools initiative in West Sacramento. To make a donation, visit YourLocalUnitedWay.org.