JEFFERSON CITY — State Sen. Lincoln Hough, R-Springfield, today issued a statement relating to the Imagination Library’s availability in Missouri:

“I was so excited to hear that now every child in Missouri is eligible for my Imagination

Library!”

                 — Dolly Parton, commenting on the investment provided by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

“During the appropriation process for Fiscal Year 2024, conducted during the 2023 legislative session, we made the decision to expand the Imagination Library to all children statewide. The effort to expand these literary resources came through an $11,000,000 line item, providing the opportunity for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library to fully expand into Missouri. This program is for all children up to age 5.

“Many states have partially funded the Imagination Library, or programs similar in functioning. Missouri stands proud as the first state to fully fund its share of this outstanding program. Every accomplishment within the Legislature is a battle hard-fought and, as Mrs. Parton did, I thank the Missouri General Assembly for their unwavering support in the securing of these vital funds. We must prioritize learning opportunities for young Missourians, focusing on not only enhancing pre-existing programs, but investing in programs such as the Imagination Library. I am truly excited for the future of our state’s early education as we continue to strive towards the creation of opportunities for every single child, regardless of their economic status.

“As the governor mentioned in his State of the State address earlier this year, ’We’ve left no community behind.’ This is how lawmakers are approaching these tasks of appropriation. I’m proud of the work Mrs. Parton has invested into such an incredible program, and it’s exciting to see the future of our youth stand so bright.”

— Senator Lincoln Hough