Thousands of under-5s in Wandsworth will soon receive a free book every month through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, as the borough becomes the latest to join the global reading initiative.
From September, families can expect high-quality, age-appropriate books delivered straight to their door – all at no cost. Registration is now open for all children aged under five living in the borough.
Founded by Parton in 1995 to foster a love of books among children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, the scheme has distributed over 200 million books worldwide. In Wandsworth, it is being delivered by The Dollywood Foundation with support from the People’s Postcode Lottery.
“I have always known that if we encourage children to dream, we give them the chance to live those dreams,” said Parton in a statement. “Having books at home is the perfect way to open a child’s mind to a world of imagination.”
A literary lift-off for Wandsworth’s Year of Play
The launch of the Imagination Library forms part of Wandsworth’s broader “Year of Play” initiative – a £15 million investment in playgrounds, inclusive activities, and cultural programming as part of its tenure as London Borough of Culture 2025.
Each book is selected by early childhood experts and published by Penguin Random House UK. In addition to monthly deliveries, the scheme will be supported locally by events in libraries and family hubs, author visits to schools, and themed activities to help parents and carers engage in home reading.
Authors visiting Wandsworth this autumn include former Children’s Laureates Chris Riddell, Cressida Cowell, and Joseph Coelho.
More than just books
The council says the Imagination Library will complement its wider family support work. That includes the Access for All programme, which offers discounts on council services and activities, and a free baby box for eligible new parents – filled with clothes, books, and toys to help encourage early bonding and development.
A public launch event for the Imagination Library is planned for September, marking what the council describes as “an exciting new chapter” for Wandsworth’s youngest readers.
