WACO, TX — Dolly Parton's Imagination Library is finally in Waco!
The international organization kicked off in 1995 with the hope of providing free books to children.
"She started this program because her father could not read or write. She felt like it was important to give kids the chance to get books from an early age and be ready for school," said Noelle Baker.
For six months, Noelle and her husband, Kevin Baker, worked hard to launch the program locally.
"It's not something that is here, and it's a program that can be implemented in any community as long as you have a nonprofit in your community willing to take it on," said Noelle.
Imagination Library of Waco will provide free books monthly for children between the ages of 0 to 5. It's currently offered to those who live in these five zip codes: 76701, 76704, 76707, 76710, 76711.
If you would like to register, you can do it online or show up at one of the Waco libraries to fill out a quick form.
"Within six to eight weeks, they will start to receive books every month for their kids," said Noelle.
All books will be customized with the child's name.
Noelle hopes the program becomes well-recognized and loved throughout the community.
"We are hoping that kids in Waco will know about it, and that by the time they are newborns, they can start getting those books," she said.
Their goal is for every zip code in McLennan County to be eligible to register.
Providence Hospital will register any newborn that lives in the current qualifying zip codes.
