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  Imagination Library
Imagination Library, United Way and You:
Investing in our children is as easy as ABC

The Imagination Library Program was started in 1995 by Dolly Parton for her hometown of Sevier County, Tenn., because she wanted every child 0-5 years of age to have his or her own library of books. Dolly understood the importance of exposing children to reading at an early age, starting right from birth, so she began sending books every month, free of charge, to kids in her county.

United Way of the Black Hills adopted the program in 2002, and is including this initiative as part of its annual fundraising campaign again this year.

  • All children (birth through five years of age) of families who reside or work in the Rapid City, Sturgis, Lead, Deadwood, Spearfish, Belle Fourche, Keystone, Hill City, Custer, Hot Springs, and Edgemont areas where United Way conducts a campaign are eligible to participate in the book program, at no cost to them or their family, regardless of family income.
  • Books will be sent out to participating children once a month until they reach five years of age.
  • Cost is $30 per year per child. The United Way of the Black Hills, through contributions received from local citizens during its annual fund drive, will pay for all the books and mailing costs, while Dolly Parton's foundation will take care of the actual mailing of the books.
What are the responsibilities of the parent/guardian? In addition to residing in the area mentioned above, the responsibilities include submitting an official registration form, and notifying United Way anytime there is a change of address. Change of address notification is important because the books are mailed to the address listed on the registration form and are not forward-able.

When will the child receive his/her books? Books will begin arriving at the child's home about eight to 10 weeks after the registration form has been received by United Way of the Black Hills. The books will continue to be sent until the child turns five or moves out of the geographical area mentioned above.
Call 605.343.5872 for further information.
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