We are dedicated to inspiring a love of reading in Montana by gifting free, high-quality books each month to children from birth to age five.

Treasure State Foundation

The Imagination Library of Montana is the chief initiative of the Treasure State Foundation, which serves as the Montana state program sponsor and was founded in 2021 by First Lady Susan Gianforte as a way to support the common good in Montana. 

In 2023, First Lady Gianforte and Dolly Parton announced the statewide expansion of the Imagination Library program in Montana, making it available to all Montana children under age five. The program’s unique funding structure centers on local community support and support from the Treasure State Foundation, which is assisting local programs with funding. 

Local Program Partners

Local Program Partners are available to assist with Imagination Library in your area. Click here to search for your Local Program Partner by county. 

Meet the Team

  • Susan Gianforte is the First Lady of Montana and spearheaded the statewide expansion of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library in Montana. She serves in a volunteer capacity as the president of the Treasure State Foundation, which serves as the Imagination Library State Program Partner for Montana. In her role, she leads fundraising efforts and statewide administration for the program. Susan earned a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (ME) from Cornell University, a master's degree, also in ME, from UC Berkeley, and a Master of Business Administration from New York University. The Governor and First Lady have four grown children and five grandchildren.  She considers herself blessed and honored to serve as Montana's First Lady, working alongside her husband. Her favorite Imagination Library book is "The Little Engine that Could"

  • Teal Whitaker oversees statewide outreach and marketing efforts for Imagination Library of Montana, helping spread the joy of literacy around the state. She formerly worked at the Montana Community Foundation and United Way of Yellowstone County. Teal attended Gonzaga University and has a certificate in nonprofit management from the University of Washington. Teal can often be found spending time with her husband and two kids or attempting to garden. Her favorite Imagination Library book is "The Rabbit Listened."