LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 4, 2026) – A new partnership at Golisano Children's at UK will help put books directly into the hands of Kentucky children and families.

On this episode of Behind the Blue, host Kody Kiser talks with Kelsey Rahenkamp of Golisano Children's at UK, Lindsey Westerfield of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library of Kentucky and Dr. Anna Thamann, a neonatal neurologist at UK HealthCare, about the hospital becoming an official enrollment location for Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. 

Through the partnership, families coming through Golisano Children's at UK can enroll children under age 5 in the program and receive their first book before they leave. Children enrolled in Imagination Library receive a free, high-quality, age-appropriate book in the mail each month until they turn 5, at no cost to families. 

Rahenkamp explains that families do not have to be patients to sign up. Patients, siblings, visitors, grandparents and others can enroll eligible children while at the hospital by scanning posted QR codes or visiting the pediatric education center for help with enrollment and to receive the first book. 

The episode also explores the broader impact of early literacy. Westerfield discusses the history and statewide reach of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, which is now available in every county in Kentucky. She also shares research showing that children enrolled in the program are more likely to be read to regularly and more likely to demonstrate early literacy and kindergarten readiness skills. 

Thamann explains what happens in a child's brain during the first months and years of life, and why reading, talking and shared time with parents and caregivers can support language development, bonding and emotional connection. She describes parents, teachers and caregivers as "brain changers," helping shape early development through simple, everyday interactions. 

Together, the guests discuss why a children's hospital is a natural partner for a literacy program and how access to books can support the whole child, from physical health to development, confidence and long-term success.

To learn more about Dolly Parton's Imagination Library of Kentucky or to enroll a child, visit imaginationlibrary.com.

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This interview has been edited for time and clarity.