Hutchinson Public Library Director Greg Wamsley talks about the program.

The United Way officially launched a county wide mission and the expansion of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library to all children under five-years-old in Reno County.

It started back in May of last year in the Fairfield school district and United Way Director Tona Turner says 45% in that district are now involved.

But, thanks to sponsorships and grants, all Reno County children under the age of five can now receive a free book per month from birth until their fifth birthday. One such sponsor is the The Herman, Ester, & Henry Stallman Foundation through the First National Bank. That foundation along with the United Way will sponsor books for children in the Hutchinson area. Also involved is Bretz Law Office who is sponsoring books for all preschoolers in Buhler in and Haven. Strohl Oil Company is sponsoring children in Pretty Prairie. A grant from Bank of America will allow children in Nickerson area to participate.

The Dolly Foundation pays for the books. Sponsors pay for the shipping costs, so there is no cost to families. Books are shipped directly to each child’s home and are theirs to keep.

Parents may register young children in the program through United Way of Reno County’s website at www.unitedwayofrenocounty.org or completing a Dolly Parton Imagination Library registration card which can be picked up at any Reno County elementary school, The Hutchinson Public Library or United Way of Reno County.