NEVADA COUNTY, CA — Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Nevada County is celebrating major growth with more than 1,125 local children currently enrolled in its free book-gifting program. To connect with more families, the program is hosting a special registration event at the Nevada County Fair’s Kid’s Corner from Wednesday, August 12 through Sunday, August 16, between 11:00 AM and 7:00 PM. Families who drop by can sign up their eligible children and take home free books on the spot.
The local literacy initiative was officially co-launched at the Nevada County Fair in August 2025 by the Nevada City Rotary Club and Foundation, First 5 Nevada County, and Dollywood Foundation. Following successful initial fundraising campaigns, monthly book shipments began arriving directly in local mailboxes in October 2025. The program continues to experience strong momentum, providing thousands of free literary resources to local households.
Fair Event & Registration Details
- Dates: Wednesday, August 12 – Sunday, August 16, 2026
- Hours: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily.
- Location: Kid’s Corner, Nevada County Fairgrounds.
- On-Site Perks: Free children’s books available for pickup and program enrollment.
- Target Audience: Any Nevada County child from birth up to their fifth birthday
“Early literacy is the single most powerful tool we have to set up our children for lifelong success,” said Andrea Mason, President of the Rotary Club of Nevada City and Program Chair. “Reaching over 1,125 children proves how deeply our community values this mission. By delivering these books straight to local mailboxes, we aren’t just teaching children to read—we are fostering a lifelong love of learning across all of Nevada County.“
About the Program
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Nevada County delivers one brand-new, high-quality, age-appropriate book each month directly to registered children at no cost to families. The program includes bilingual selections for Spanish-speaking households.
“Investing in early childhood literacy during the first five years shapes a child’s entire future,” said Melody Easton, Executive Director of First 5 Nevada County. “This partnership allows us to put essential learning tools directly into the hands of parents and caregivers. Seeing over 1,100 local children already thriving with this program shows what we can achieve when our community comes together to support our youngest learners.“
About the Partners
Brought to the region through local community leadership, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Nevada County is a collaborative partnership between the Rotary Club of Nevada City and Foundation and First 5 Nevada County, with partial state matching funds designed to build early literacy and strong home libraries across the community. Generous donations from community members, organizations, Rotary District 5190, and local Rotary Clubs help spread the joy of reading to all our youngest children across Nevada County.