Wandsworth to Launch Free Book Programme for Young Children
Borough has signed up with Dolly Parton’s literacy initiative
Dolly Parton aims to support early literacy development and foster a love of reading
July 23, 2025
Children aged 0–5 across the London Borough of Wandsworth will begin receiving free monthly books starting this September, following the launch of the Imagination Library initiative. The programme, created in 1995 by American performer Dolly Parton, aims to support early literacy development and foster a love of reading among children.
The initiative is open to all young children in the borough and provides one age-appropriate book per child each month from birth until their fifth birthday. Families can now register to participate in the scheme, with deliveries beginning in the autumn.
The programme is funded by contributions from the People’s Postcode Lottery and administered by the Dollywood Foundation, a charitable organisation established by the Country and Western singer. Wandsworth Council’s partnership with the Imagination Library forms part of its broader strategy to support families through literacy, play, and cultural initiatives.
As part of its Year of Play and London Borough of Culture 2025 designation, Wandsworth Council is investing £15 million in public play areas and inclusive community activities. The Imagination Library complements this investment by offering ongoing access to reading materials at home, alongside literacy events in schools and libraries. Planned activities include author visits and themed workshops to encourage participation and promote reading among the borough’s youngest residents.
Books distributed through the Imagination Library are selected by early childhood experts and published by Penguin Random House UK. In addition to receiving physical books, families will have access to related educational resources through local libraries, nurseries and Family Hubs.
The programme also aligns with the borough’s Access for All initiative, which offers financial support to eligible residents. New parents registered under Access for All are eligible to receive a free baby box containing a selection of essential items to support their child’s early development.
Dolly Parton said: “I have always known that if we encourage children to dream, we give them the chance to live those dreams. Having books at home is the perfect way to open a child’s mind to a world of imagination, and I am so proud that my Imagination Library has reached so many children over the years.
"Now children living in your community will receive the gift of reading. I hope that we’ll soon grow the programme to reach many more children and inspire a love of reading that will last a lifetime.”
A public launch event is scheduled for September to mark the beginning of the book delivery programme. Residents can find further details and register through the Imagination Library website.
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