March 13th, 2026
Books Unlock a Child’s Mind - We talk to Donna Bitely of Cecil’s Imagination Library
During a March 12 Cecil TV interview, Donna Bitely of the Cecil County Dolly Parton Imagination Library joined host Doug Donley to highlight the importance of early childhood literacy and encourage families to enroll in the program during National Reading Month.
Bitely explained that the Imagination Library provides one free book each month to children from birth to age five, helping families build a home library and encouraging parents to read with their children every day. The program was founded by entertainer Dolly Parton more than 30 years ago after Parton saw how illiteracy had limited opportunities for her father. Today the program operates in every U.S. state and several countries.
Since launching in Cecil County in 2019 with just 23 children enrolled, the program has grown rapidly. More than 3,000 local children have been registered, including over 1,900 currently participating, and more than 80,000 books have been mailed to Cecil County families. Children who enroll at birth can receive up to 60 books by the time they turn five.
Bitely said the program not only improves children’s literacy but also strengthens family engagement with reading. A 2025 survey of participating families found that 83% of parents noticed increased enthusiasm for books among their children and 93% believed the program helped prepare their child for kindergarten. However, the survey also revealed a concerning statistic: 18% of families had no children’s books at home before joining the program, highlighting the need for expanded outreach.
Bitely also emphasized that while Dolly Parton created the program and manages the national infrastructure, local affiliates must raise funds to cover the cost of books and mailing. In Cecil County, the cost is about $31 per child per year, and organizers continue to seek community support and additional state funding to sustain the effort.
Families interested in enrolling their children can register through the program’s website or request a form by email. Bitely also encouraged residents to visit the organization at upcoming community events in March where families can learn more and sign up.
