FROM INDIANA PUBLIC BROADCASTING

Indiana First Lady Maureen Braun is leading a new fundraising effort to support the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which provides free books each month to children from birth to age five.

The program expanded statewide in 2023 with $6 million in state funds under former Governor Eric Holcomb, matched by local partners. But that funding was cut in Governor Mike Braun’s proposed budget and not restored by lawmakers.

Governor Braun tasked his wife with keeping the program going. In a video announcing the launch, Maureen Braun said reading “opens up a world of imagination for kids.”

“Having books in the home helps children do better in school and will benefit them throughout their lives,” she said.

The effort is described as a public-private partnership involving philanthropic groups and state leaders.

More information and a link to donate can be found at the Indiana State Library Foundation’s website.