State Funding Changes May Impact Imagination Library
Proposed Indiana budget cuts threaten program for more than 15,000 local children
Currently, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library serves over 15,000 children in Michiana counties, with thousands more benefiting across the state. Studies show that early access to books greatly improves kindergarten readiness, reading proficiency, and long-term academic success — key factors in closing educational gaps for low-income and ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families.
More than 10,000 children in St. Joseph and over 5,000 children in Elkhart, LaGrange, and Noble counties receive free books in the mail, but Indiana’s proposed budget eliminates funding for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library (DPIL). The state had previously committed to a 50% funding match through 2026, but the latest proposal removes that support, putting the program — and thousands of young readers — at risk.
DPIL provides free, high-quality books each month to children from birth to age five, ensuring they build strong early literacy skills. The program operates as a public-private partnership, with local organizations — like Crossroads United Way and the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County — covering half the cost, while the state match funds the rest. Without this funding, local programs may be forced to cap enrollment, place children on waitlists, or even shut down entirely.
“This program is one of the most impactful ways to prepare children for success in school and life,” said Bill Purcell, CEO of Crossroads United Way. “If the state eliminates this funding, thousands of Hoosier kids—many from working families who need the literacy supports—will be left behind.”
“For only about one dollar per child per month, Indiana found a brilliant way to support our efforts to enroll every little child in this beautiful program,” says Rose Meissner, president of the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. “It fosters an early love of books and reading. I urge the State to continue this excellent investment in the future of our children.”
Indiana’s previous budget allocated $1.6 million for 2023-2024 and $2.5 million for 2024-2025 to help expand DPIL statewide. Under the new proposal, all state funding would be cut, placing the burden solely on local communities to sustain the program.