Dolly Parton's Imagination Library

United Way of Fort Smith Area is dedicated to fostering learning, development, and a sense of belonging for children and youth, empowering them to grow into responsible and contributing adults. Our goal is to provide children with positive developmental opportunities, ensuring they are prepared to succeed when they begin school. We remain committed to promoting success, not only in learning but also in life.

Research indicates that children who engage in regular "lap time” reading books, as opposed to "laptop" time before kindergarten, can develop a vocabulary of up to 10,000 words by age five. In contrast, children without this experience have a vocabulary of only 3,000 words. It is imperative that, as a community, we work together to level this playing field.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library provides a free book each month to children whose parents/guardians register for the program in Crawford, Franklin, LeFlore, Logan, Sebastian, and Sequoyah counties from birth until their fifth birthday. These sturdy, colorful, and age-appropriate books are delivered directly to the child. Each book is carefully selected for its developmental benefits and enjoyment value to children.

The local cost of the program is $31.00 per child annually. No charges, fees, or donations are required or expected for enrollment, and there is NO COST on a family to participate.

Due to a grant received, donations made to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library are matched dollar-for-dollar, ensuring your contribution has the most impact on local youth.

To enroll using a printed form to be mailed, click here.

To donate, click here.