This Program provides one, age-appropriate book per month to every child in Wexford and Missaukee County from birth to age five. The Dolly Parton Foundation “Imagination Library” assists by determining which books are age-appropriate and sending them to the family’s homes straight from their facility.
This Program is open at all children, ages 0 – 5, in Wexford and Missaukee Counties at no charge.
Program funding is still by the community. The Foundation houses two funds for this Program; the Imagination Library Pass Through Fund accepts donations for immediate use. The Wexford-Missaukee ISD Early Childhood Endowment Fund accepts donations for the Imagination Library and endows them to ensure this Program’s continuation.
If you live in the Wexford Missaukee ISD School District, you can sign your child up for the Imagination Library Book Program!
In 1995, Dolly Parton launched an exciting new effort, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Dolly’s vision was to foster a love of reading among her county’s preschool children and their families by giving them the gift of a specially selected book each month. By mailing high-quality, age-appropriate books directly to their homes, she wanted children to be excited about books and feel the magic they can create. Moreover, she could ensure that every child would have books, regardless of their family’s income.
Local History of Program
In 2013, our local Imagination Library was established. The local Imagination Library Program was founded as a collaborative effort between charitable business owners, philanthropic donors, the Wexford-Missaukee Intermediate School District, the Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Cadillac Area Community Foundation.
Breakfast with Santa
A cherished annual event aimed at raising funds for the Imagination Library Book Program.
The annual Breakfast with Santa fundraiser has become a beloved holiday tradition that brings families, local businesses, sponsors, and community supporters together in support of childhood literacy initiatives throughout the region. Since 2019, the event has raised more than $200,000 through donations, sponsorships, and grants, helping sustain the program year after year.
Families gather each season to enjoy a festive morning filled with breakfast, holiday characters, crafts, raffles, and memorable experiences for children of all ages. The event also reflects a strong spirit of community by welcoming local families and organizations to participate in the celebration, ensuring the joy of the season can be shared more broadly.
More than a fundraiser, Breakfast with Santa creates meaningful holiday memories while strengthening community support for children, learning, and literacy for future generations.
