About Wakefield Imagination Library
Wakefield Imagination Library is a partnership between Wakefield Council and Spectrum Community Health CIC. We are part of the worldwide Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, run by the Dollywood Foundation.
Started in 1995, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is now one of the biggest free book programmes for young children in the world. It has given over 270 million books to children in the UK, USA, Canada, Ireland and Australia.
“We read our new books about 25 times in a day! My daughter is learning so much. It’s something special we do a family ”
Quote from a Wakefield family
What We Do
Each month, Wakefield children registered on the programme receive a free, carefully selected book delivered directly to their home. These books are designed to:
- spark imagination
- build early reading and communication skills
- encourage reading as a family
- promote bonding and attachment through shared reading
- prepare children for school and lifelong learning
Who We Help
Wakefield Imagination Library work with the 0 to 19 Health Visiting Team and Family Nurse Partnership to identify children across the district who will benefit most from the gifting of books, alongside supporting all children in:
- Airedale and Ferry Fryston
- Castleford Central
- Knottingley
- Pontefract North and South
How do I register my child?
You can sign up for the Wakefield Imagination Library by:
- calling Spectrum on 01924 311400
- visiting Airedale, Castleford Central, or Pontefract Library
- registering online
Our Impact - Real change starts with a book
Here’s what families tell us:
- 97% say our books help their child’s speech and language
- 88% say they read more often
- 92% share books with other family members
“Our child's face lights up when the post arrives. It’s like opening a present every month.”
Quote from a Wakefield Family
Early Years Outcomes:
- children in our programme are more likely to meet early reading goals
- more Wakefield children show improved school readiness at age 5
- 30% of parents now read daily with their child
- 20% say their confidence in reading together has grown
- 92% share books with siblings, making reading a family habit
Wakefield Imagination Library is dependent upon the generosity of local donors to deliver this life changing work.
Just £26 support one child for 12 books for a full year.
Donations to the Wakefield Imagination Library are processed by the Dollywood Foundation. If you're a UK taxpayer, the Dollywood Foundation can claim Gift Aid on your contribution, allowing your donation to go even further.