Kansas City, Missouri: Dolly Parton, the renowned 78-year-old country music icon, embarked on a journey to promote literacy in honor of her late father, Robert Lee Parton. Growing up poor and never learning to read himself, Parton’s father inspired her mission to enhance literacy through the Imagination Library book giveaway program. The program, originating in Tennessee in 1995, now spans across 21 states, including Missouri and Kentucky, allowing children under five to receive monthly book deliveries to their homes.
Parton’s dedication to improving literacy has resulted in the distribution of over 3 million books each month through the program. With a total cost of $11 million in the latest fiscal year, Missouri fully covers the expenses, while other states participate through a cost-sharing model. Parton’s initiative has reached millions of children in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Australia, nurturing a love for reading from a young age.
In Kentucky, Governor Andy Beshear highlighted the impact of the Imagination Library, reaching children in all 120 counties. Over 120,000 Kentucky children, nearly half of the state’s preschoolers, are currently enrolled in the program, fostering family reading habits and providing children with their personal libraries before kindergarten, at no cost to their families. Parton aspires to expand the program to every state, with 21 states already enacting legislation to ensure enrollment for all children under five.
Parton’s commitment to literacy resonates deeply as she aims to honor her father’s legacy through the program. She emphasizes the importance of instilling a love for books and reading in young children, underscoring the program’s significance in her life. Beyond her musical achievements, Parton finds profound fulfillment in the impact of the Imagination Library, attributing it as one of her most cherished endeavors. As she continues to inspire others through her music and philanthropy, Parton’s enduring legacy embodies a dedication to making the world a brighter place.
In Kentucky, Parton reflected on her timeless legacy, expressing her desire to be remembered as a hardworking individual who brought joy and positivity to others. Her journey from humble beginnings to international stardom illustrates the power of literacy, storytelling, and the unwavering commitment to creating a better future for generations to come. With a heartfelt dedication to her father’s memory and a passion for nurturing young minds, Dolly Parton’s legacy shines brightly through the pages of the Imagination Library.