Storytime: State Fair is partnering again with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — In collaboration with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, the Illinois State Fair is promoting early childhood literacy through the gift of books.

This inspiring book-gifting program mails free, high-quality and age-appropriate books to children from birth to age 5, regardless of the family’s income.

In celebration of this partnership, families are invited to enjoy a daily storytime session at 2 p.m. inside the Sensory Station in the Emmerson Building during the Illinois State Fair.

It’s the perfect midday pause in the air-conditioning, giving an opportunity for kids to unwind, listen and imagine, before heading back out to explore all the excitement the fair has to offer.

“The Illinois State Fair is a place where families create lasting memories and enjoy unforgettable experiences,” said Rebecca Clark, Illinois State Fair manager.

“Through this partnership, we’re bringing the power of books to the fairgrounds, giving more children the opportunity to explore the excitement, imagination and happiness that reading can awaken.”

Storytime allows parents, grandparents and caregivers to come out and learn more about the organization’s contributions to literacy, music and creativity.

“We welcome families to enjoy storytime with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and participate in fun, interactive activities that celebrate the joy of reading,” said Andi Drileck, state director of the Imagination Library of Illinois.

“Cultivating a love of books at an early age can have a lasting impact on a child’s future. Research shows that children enrolled in the program develop stronger early literacy skills and enter kindergarten better prepared.

“We hope our presence at the Illinois State Fair will help more families learn about this opportunity, strengthen community connections, and expand access to these important literacy benefits.”

Supported by the Dollywood Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded by Dolly Parton in 1988, the Imagination Library program has grown into the world’s leading early childhood book-gifting initiative.

Since its launch in 1995, the program now mails over 3 million books to participants every month, including kids in Illinois.

To check if a program is available in your area, visit imaginationlibrary.com. You can enroll your child or sign up to be notified when a program comes to your community.