Dolly Parton's Imagination Library of Ohio - Hamilton County
Growing Up with Books
The Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Hamilton County Imagination Library is part of the Ohio Imagination Library, a statewide initiative that gives every child in Ohio the opportunity to grow up with books in their home.
Launched in August 2015, this program promotes early literacy and school readiness by providing free, high-quality books each month to children from birth through age five.
The Hamilton County program operates in partnership with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, and the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. Together, these partners combine local coordination with a nationally recognized program to reach families throughout the region.
While we administer Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library only in Hamilton County, any child in Ohio is eligible to sign up and will be transferred to their county program. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is also available in much of Indiana, Kentucky and many other areas.
How It Works
- Enrollment: Parents or caregivers can register their child online or in person at any Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County location. Enrollment is free and open to all children ages 0–5 residing in Hamilton County.
- Monthly Delivery: Once enrolled, each child receives a brand-new, age-appropriate book in the mail every month until their fifth birthday.
- Growing Together: The books are carefully selected to inspire imagination, foster bonding through shared reading, and build strong language and early literacy skills that prepare children for kindergarten success.
This simple, consistent routine—reading aloud daily and receiving exciting new books—helps families make reading a joyful part of everyday life.
Impact to Date
- Over 30,000 children enrolled in Hamilton County
- More than 2 million books mailed to Hamilton County families
- Thousands of children entering kindergarten with stronger early literacy skills and a love of reading
Why It Matters
Early exposure to books helps children develop vocabulary, comprehension and curiosity long before they enter school. Families who participate in the Imagination Library often report stronger connections with their children and more confidence in supporting their child’s learning journey.
By promoting literacy from birth, the Hamilton County Imagination Library and its partners are investing in Ohio’s future—one book at a time.
Enrollment Information
Free for children birth–age 5
- Ohio residents: www.ohioimaginationlibrary.org
- All other states: www.imaginationlibrary.com
No computer access? Visit any Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County branch to register in person.
For Existing Participants:
For more information or to change your address with the program, call 513-636-4271 or email cincyIL@cchmc.org.
How Can I Help?
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and Reach Out and Read are always in need of help sustaining these book gifting programs that are free to families.
To donate and help us continue to send free books, please click below.
Supporters and Sponsors
Special thanks to our generous sponsors:
- PNC Foundation Grow Up Great
- Farmer Family Foundation
- Scripps Howard Fund
- Cincinnati Public Schools
- Lois Fannon Fund
- Mary Louise Tecklenburg
- Donna Schiff Estate
- Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile, Jr. Foundation
- Hamilton County Commissioners
- The Andrew Jergens Foundation
