A Dunfermline MSP hopes that the Imagination Library exhibition at Holyrood will convince others to get involved with the project founded by country music legend Dolly Parton.

Shirley-Anne Somerville sponsored the exhibition, which provided MSPs with the opportunity to learn more about the project.

The Imagination Library is a book gifting programme that delivers free books to children from birth to the age of five, regardless of their family's income. The initiative was founded by singer-songwriter Dolly Parton and aims to grow a love for reading in children.

Shirley-Anne said: "It was a pleasure to sponsor the Imagination Library exhibition in the Scottish Parliament.

"The goals of this project align very closely with my own commitment to promoting education and literacy in Dunfermline. 

"Books can have an amazing impact on a child's development, while story time is also a powerful bonding experience for kids and their parents.

"The Imagination Library therefore gives us a unique opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of local families. That is something that should never be underestimated."

READ MORE: Winners from Taylor Wimpey art project named with designs used in new development

Brucefield Tenants and Residents Association recently became the first group in Dunfermline to sign up for the programme. Dozens of children in the local area have already received their first book.

Kirsty Hill, regional director of The Dollywood Foundation UK, added: "We’re very grateful to Shirley-Anne for sponsoring our exhibition and supporting the Imagination Library in Dunfermline. 

"To date, we have gifted over half a million books to children in Scotland, and we’re ready to do so much more! 

"Dolly’s vision to inspire a love of reading through community partnerships clearly resonated with MSPs from across the country. 

"Together, we can embrace her vision to get books into the hands of children everywhere and help make Scotland the best place to grow up."