Rosie’s Reading launches into Launceston’s northern suburbs, bringing books and imagination to more Tasmanian children

Families in Launceston’s northern suburbs are now set to benefit from the launch of Rosie’s Reading, a Kinetic Moving Communities Fund grant recipient, as the beloved Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program launches at muylatina Child and Family Learning Centre.

Putting a book in a child’s hands opens new possibilities - for babies and young children, even the simple act of sharing a book with a loved one provides comfort, builds family bonds, and sparks curiosity during those vital early years.

That’s where the Imagination Library comes in. Through Rosie’s Reading, eligible young Tasmanians now receive the gift of a quality book every month, from birth to the start of primary school.

Each book is delivered direct to the home, personalised with the child’s name, and crafted to kick-start a lifelong love of reading.

Tip sheets for parents and caregivers arrive with every book, providing support and inspiration for reading together.

The newest chapter brings Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program into more homes than ever in the north of Launceston, with families in Invermay, Mowbray, Newnham, Mayfield, Rocherlea, Lilydale, Underwood and Dilston now eligible, free of charge, for children born after 1 January 2024.

It’s about encouraging the whole community to embrace a culture of reading and nurturing the big imaginations that make Tasmania shine.

Rosie’s Reading Chair Rick Marton says that whilst we often talk about teaching reading in schools, the first 1000 days of a child's life is when their brain develops faster at any other time in their life and that starting at birth is such a big opportunity.

“A parent doesn't need a high level of reading skill – they just need to be a few words ahead to be their child's reading hero just like my mum Rosie was to me through my childhood,” he said.

“We’re incredibly grateful to have received a grant from the 2025 Kinetic Moving Communities Fund.

“Kinetic supports grassroots organisations, schools, and clubs, helping build stronger, more inclusive communities.

“From sustainable transport to social impact, every cent of this grant, like all contributions to Rosie’s Reading, will go directly to making Imagination Library available to more Tasmanian families.”

Kinetic General Manager (Tasmania) Andrew Grzinic said, “In Tasmania we’re proud to back organisations that spark creativity, connection and confidence.

“Whether it’s culture, music or literacy, these projects create opportunities that will stay with young people for life.

“We congratulate Rosie’s Reading on their launch into the northern suburbs of Launceston, and we look forward to supporting them further on their mission to instil a love of reading and literacy in young Tasmanians."

Rosie’s Reading continues to champion accessible literacy for every child, growing big imaginations and stronger communities, one book at a time.