Indiana First Lady Braun launches fundraiser for Imagination Library

Indiana First Lady Maureen Braun has launched a fundraising initiative to sustain and expand Dolly Parton's Imagination Library across the state after Governor Mike Braun and state lawmakers cut statewide funding for the program. The Imagination Library mails free books to children from birth to age five, promoting early childhood literacy and offering long-term educational benefits. The new initiative, structured as a public-private partnership, seeks support from philanthropic organizations and local leaders to keep the program operational in all 92 Indiana counties. Maureen Braun emphasized the importance of books in the home for children's academic success and lifelong learning. The initiative has received praise from The Dollywood Foundation's president, who called Braun's leadership a vital step for the program in Indiana. More information on how to contribute can be found on the Indiana State Library Foundation's website.