Every baby born at The Jane to receive free book

It's thanks to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

Every baby born at the Jane Crookall Maternity Unit is to go home with a book thanks to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.

The scheme is a gifting program that posts free books to children, from birth to age five, no matter their family's income.

You can read more HERE.

Since the end of February, 'The Tale of Peter Rabbit' has been included in maternity discharge packs.

It's been facilitated by a year-long sponsorship from Manx Technology Group.

The pack also includes information explaining how parents can check whether their area is open for registration and sign up for the programme.

Abby Chatwood, Chief Operating Officer of Manx Technology Group, said: "Technology may shape the modern world, but curiosity and imagination are at the heart of innovation. 

"Manx Technology Group is proud to support Dolly Parton's Imagination Library on the Isle of Man, helping ensure every newborn leaving The Jane receives their first book."

Regan Baggley, Head of Midwifery at The Jane Crookall Maternity Unit, added: "We’re delighted to support this initiative. Encouraging families to read, talk and share books with their babies from birth can have a real impact, and this is a lovely way to mark the start of that journey."

While The Tale of Peter Rabbit will be gifted to every newborn at The Jane, ongoing monthly books are available to families living in areas where local funding has been secured.

The Isle of Man Imagination Library is currently open in Douglas, with around 430 children already registered and receiving their books. 

The charity is working to expand the programme across the Island. 

Only a few hundred pounds is now needed to open registrations in IM7 (Andreas, Ballaugh, Bride, Jurby, Lezayre and Maughold), while around £4,000 is needed to open Ramsey.

For more information you can visit the Imagination Library website.