The San Francisco Department of Early Childhood (DEC), in partnership with San Francisco Public Library, have partnered with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to bring the love of learning to San Francisco’s youngest residents.
Through the Imagination Library, all children ages 0 to 5 are eligible to receive a free book every month until their 5th birthday.
These high-quality, age-appropriate books are thoughtfully selected to reflect a wide range of cultures, languages, and experiences. Books are available in Spanish and English and are delivered by mail at no cost to families. The program makes it easy for parents and caregivers to build vibrant home libraries and spend quality time reading with their children.
Early literacy plays an important role in helping children build language skills and confidence before starting school. Reading with young children supports vocabulary development and strengthens early brain growth. Over time, this helps create the foundation for success in kindergarten and beyond. In fact, research suggests that children who are read to regularly during their early years hear significantly more words and are entering kindergarten with a strong foundation of literacy skills.
To celebrate the launch, Mayor Daniel Lurie joined families at the San Francisco Public Library to celebrate and highlight the power of early literacy.
“I know the hope that we all carry – that our kids get the strongest start possible… With the Imagination Library, each book represents possibility, each book moves a child closer to success.”
With families gathered around, Mayor Lurie led a playful read-aloud of Llama Llama Red Pajama. Since the launch, more than 3,000 families have already joined the Imagination Library. Soon, parents and caregivers across San Francisco will be enjoying Llama Llama Red Pajama—and countless other stories—together at home..
The partnership between DEC, SFPL, and The DPIL is part of the city’s broader investment in families with young children. By providing regular access to books, the Imagination Library helps families build strong reading habits and make early learning a part of everyday life.
Beyond Books: Supporting Families Every Step of the Way
The Imagination Library is just one of many ways DEC supports San Francisco families with young children. Together, these resources reflect a citywide commitment to early learning and family well-being.
- Sparkler App (part of DEC’s Early Connections initiative): Track milestones, complete free screenings, and enjoy fun learning activities. Available in English, Spanish, and Chinese.
- Early Learning For All: Discover free and low-cost child care and preschool options near you.
- Family Resource Centers: Access parenting classes, peer support, and tools for every stage of your child’s growth.
Learn more about DEC and enroll in the Imagination Library.