State Superintendent to fund Imagination Library of Washington amid budget cuts

Washington's State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Chris Reykdal, announced plans to fund the Imagination Library for another year despite a $12 billion state budget shortfall. The initiative, created by Dolly Parton, provides free monthly books to children from birth to age five and currently reaches 120,000 children statewide. Reykdal noted that the recent legislative session eliminated state funding for the program, along with other early learning initiatives. He emphasized the importance of early learning opportunities, stating, "Washington’s youngest children cannot afford to have their opportunities for early learning cut. " The Imagination Library aims to enhance kindergarten readiness, and Reykdal plans to advocate for renewed funding in the next legislative session.

Executive Director Brooke Fisher-Clark commended the support, asserting the program's transformative potential for young learners. Each book costs $2. 60 to distribute, with local partners covering half the cost. The program also includes a bilingual option, allowing families to receive books in both English and Spanish.