Who We Are
A new chapter for Rochester's Imagination Library
The Rochester chapter of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library has found a new home at United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes — a natural partnership united by a shared belief that every child in our community deserves the best possible start in life.
“United Way brings established infrastructure, fundraising capacity, and deep community relationships that position the Imagination Library for long-term growth.”
Our story
Rochester's chapter launched as a pilot program in the 14605 zip code in the summer of 2021. We went city-wide in the winter of 2022 and have been growing ever since. When the program needed a local home four years ago, the Rochester Education Foundation stepped in as a vital bridge — sparking a huge jumpstart for children across Rochester.
Now, United Way is committed to not only sustaining that momentum but expanding the program's reach with the community support needed to take it to scale. United Way chapters across the country host Dolly Parton Imagination Libraries because it ties directly to their collective work in early childhood education and youth success.
How it works
Every month, a brand new, age-appropriate book is mailed directly to each enrolled child's home — from birth through age five, regardless of family income. Books are selected by a panel of child literacy experts and tailored to each child's age and developmental stage.
The home delivery model is intentional: by bringing books to families rather than requiring them to seek resources out, the program removes barriers and makes participation easy.
Why it matters
Early childhood literacy is one of the strongest predictors of kindergarten readiness and long-term academic success. Children who are read to regularly develop larger vocabularies, stronger communication skills, and a love of learning. Many families lack access to books at home — the Imagination Library helps bridge that gap.
Looking ahead
All donations made will serve children in Monroe County, and we hope to expand beyond that one-county footprint in the near future. United Way currently serves a six-county region — Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Wayne, and Wyoming counties — and our goal is to follow families wherever they move across that greater Rochester region.