When St. John United Way officials see that more than 1,400 St. John the Baptist Parish children have been given free books since 2012, and they wonder why the number isn’t higher.

The community service-funding agency sponsors the Imagination Library in St. John Parish to support early childhood education.

The program provides a free book to any child in the parish — from birth to 5 years old — every month until the child turns 5.

Although the total represents more than 50 percent of eligible children, it should be knocking the door at 100 percent, because it’s a program with no catches.

Music star Dolly Parton launched the effort in 1995 to benefit the children of her home county in Tennessee. It has expanded since then, with various service groups sponsoring the effort in local towns, counties and parishes.

By mailing high quality, age-appropriate books directly to participating homes, children grow excited about books and begin to feel the magic they create.

The books become a shared experience between children and parents and are delivered regardless of the family’s income.

The only prerequisite to sign up in St. John Parish is a parent must have a child living in the parish.

It’s that simple, and sign up can be achieved by visiting stjohnunitedway.org/activities/imagination-library.

“This program is proven effective in increasing the frequency that parents read to children and the child’s enthusiasm for reading,” said John Olynick, St. John United Way community impact manager.

Developing a love for reading at an early age is one of the single best ways children can set themselves up for success in school and beyond.

The Imagination Library is a no-cost, pain-free ticket to that essential key that is available to anyone living in St. John Parish.

Please take advantage of this program and promote it to those you know who are eligible for it.

For more information, call 985-651-9118.