Chesterfield County’s youngest residents—children from birth to age five—are missing out on a proven, life-changing early literacy program that many neighboring communities already enjoy. Families in Richmond, Henrico, and other surrounding counties can enroll in Dolly Parton's Imagination Library and receive high-quality, age-appropriate books mailed to their homes each month. Chesterfield families, however, do not yet have access to this opportunity, leaving a significant gap during the most critical years of yearly development. 

When children lack early exposure to books, the effects are long-lasting: delayed language development, weaker kindergarten readiness, and persistent gaps in academic achievement. Imagination Library is a simple, powerful solution—providing a free book each month to every registered child from birth to age five, fostering early literacy and a lifelong love of reading. Surrounding counties are already seeing the benefits: stronger school readiness, more engaged families, and greater community equity. If Chesterfield does not take action, its children will continue to fall behind peers across the region who are supported by this program. 

Communities across Virginia are already investing in Imagination Library because they recognize the lifelong impact of early literacy. Chesterfield’s children deserve the same opportunity. We urge county leaders to adopt Imagination Library and ensure every child has access to the books—and the future—they deserve.