The Power of Literacy: Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Program

Dolly Parton’s father grew up poor and never had the opportunity to learn how to read. Motivated by her own upbringing, the iconic 78-year-old country music legend has dedicated the past three decades to promoting literacy through her Imagination Library book giveaway program.

Since its inception in 1995, the Imagination Library has expanded nationwide, reaching children in states like Missouri and Kentucky. In these states, children under the age of 5 can enroll to receive monthly deliveries of books right to their homes.

To celebrate this milestone, Dolly Parton recently visited both Missouri and Kentucky to raise awareness about the program and share the inspiring story of her father, Robert Lee Parton. Despite not being able to read himself, Parton’s father was one of the smartest people she knew.

Parton’s dedication to improving literacy has resulted in over 3 million books being distributed each month through the program, totaling 240 million books globally. While Missouri covers the full cost of the program, other states contribute through a cost-sharing model.

Parton affectionately refers to herself as the “book lady,” a title given to her by the children who benefit from the program. She expressed how proud her father was of her efforts to promote literacy, a legacy she continues to honor by expanding the Imagination Library program nationwide.

As an accomplished author herself, Parton shared the personal story behind her children’s book “Coat of Many Colors,” which is included in the Imagination Library program. The book recounts the tale of a coat made from scraps of fabric, symbolizing love and resilience in times of hardship.

Through her music and storytelling, Dolly Parton has not only entertained audiences but also inspired countless individuals to embrace their unique stories and celebrate the power of literacy. Her commitment to honoring her father’s legacy through the Imagination Library program serves as a timeless testament to the transformative impact of literacy on future generations.

As the program continues to grow, Dolly Parton envisions a future where every child in every state has access to quality books and the opportunity to develop a lifelong love for reading. Her unwavering dedication to promoting literacy is a testament to the enduring impact of storytelling and the written word.

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Hollingsworth reported from Mission, Kansas.

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