By Andi Anderson
The Illinois State Fair has partnered with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to encourage a lifelong love of reading among young children. Through this collaboration, families are being introduced to a successful book-gifting program that provides free, high-quality, age-appropriate books to children from birth to five years old, regardless of household income.
As part of the initiative, families visiting the Illinois State Fair can participate in daily story time sessions held at 2 p.m. inside the Sensory Station located in the Emmerson Building. The sessions offer children a relaxing and enjoyable environment where they can listen to stories, use their imagination, and take a break before continuing their fair experience.
Rebecca Clark, Illinois State Fair Manager, highlighted the importance of the partnership and its benefits for young readers. She said, “The Illinois State Fair is a place where families create lasting memories and enjoy unforgettable experiences. Through this partnership, we’re bringing the power of books to the fairgrounds, giving more children the opportunity to explore the excitement, imagination, and happiness that reading can awaken.”
The story time events also allow parents, grandparents, and caregivers to learn more about the organization’s contributions to literacy, creativity, and learning. Organizers hope the activities will encourage more families to take advantage of the resources available through the program.
Andi Drileck, State Director of the Imagination Library of Illinois, emphasized the long-term value of reading at an early age. She stated, “We welcome families to enjoy storytime with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and participate in fun, interactive activities that celebrate the joy of reading. Cultavating a love of books at an early age can have a lasting impact on a child’s future. Research shows that children enrolled in the program develop stronger early literacy skills and enter kindergarten better prepared. We hope our presence at the Illinois State Fair will help more families learn about this opportunity, strengthen community connections, and expand access to these important literacy benefits.”
Supported by The Dollywood Foundation, founded by Dolly Parton in 1988, the Imagination Library has become the world’s leading early childhood book-gifting program. Since its launch in 1995, it has expanded significantly and now delivers more than three million books each month to children, including many in Illinois.
The article also highlights the 2026 Illinois State Fair theme, “Miles of Smiles,” which celebrates the 100th anniversary of historic Route 66. The fair will be held from August 13 to August 23, 2026, in Springfield, bringing together education, family activities, and community celebrations across Illinois.
Photo Credit: illinois-state-fair
Categories: Illinois, Rural Lifestyle