New York state has launched an initiative to expand access to books for young children through a partnership with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, the late country singer’s long-standing literacy program. The state’s Office of Children and Family Services is inviting nonprofit organizations, including school districts and hospitals, to submit proposals to co-purchase and distribute books to children under age five.

Under the initiative, the state will cover half the costs—up to $50,000 per award—for book purchases and shipping, while selected organizations will be responsible for the remaining expenses. Partners must enter into a memorandum of agreement with the Imagination Library, which manages administrative duties and negotiates discounted prices from publishers.

The program aims to provide eligible children with one book each month, continuing a legacy started by Parton in 1995. Initially launched in her home county in Tennessee, the Imagination Library has since expanded across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Ireland, often with government support. To date, more than 332 million books have been distributed, with nearly 3.2 million children currently registered to receive monthly deliveries.

In New York, the program already benefits approximately 170,000 children, according to State Senator Jeremy Cooney, who has championed funding for the Imagination Library through annual state grants. Cooney emphasized the significance of Parton’s work beyond her musical career and is leading efforts to establish Sept. 25 as Dolly Parton Day in New York.

Hospitals have shown particular interest in participating, with representatives expressing intentions to enroll newborns and children admitted to mother-baby units, further integrating literacy support into early childhood care.

Parton, who died on Aug. 25 at age 80 following a brief battle with cancer, frequently highlighted the program as one of her proudest achievements, noting that her father’s illiteracy inspired her commitment to childhood literacy. On her website, she reflected on the impact of the Imagination Library, stating it could be her most important legacy.

The state’s solicitation seeks to build on this foundation, extending the reach of book ownership and early literacy opportunities to even more children across New York.