In San Mateo County, the Imagination Library is made possible by the Foundation for San Mateo County Libraries, and our Friends of the Library groups in partnership with San Mateo County Libraries.
A Magical Delivery—Every Single Month
Let’s be honest—most mail these days isn’t that exciting. But for kids enrolled in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, the mailbox becomes a place of magic. Every month, children in San Mateo County from birth to age five receive a brand-new, high-quality book delivered right to their home—for free.
Yes, you read that right. Free books. Every month. No catch.
Why Reading Matters (Even for Babies)
Reading aloud to children from the very beginning, even when they’re babies who can’t yet sit up, let alone read, has lifelong benefits. Early exposure to language builds brain connections, supports emotional bonding and lays the foundation for future learning.
Two Languages, Twice the Power
Raising your child in more than one language? That’s a gift. Stories told in two languages help build vocabulary, deepen comprehension and connect children to their culture and community. The Imagination Library offers fully bilingual Spanish and English books to support your family’s language journey.
Signing Up is Easy
You can sign up for the Imagination Library online or in person at any San Mateo County Libraries location. It’s one of the easiest and most rewarding things you can do to support your child’s early development.
Don’t wait—turn your mailbox into a doorway to wonder, and help grow a lifelong reader, one book at a time!
Want a Sneak Preview?
Here are just a few of the hand-selected titles your child may receive when you enroll in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of San Mateo County. You'll get to keep these books to grow your own home library!
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