Following the death of Dolly Parton on Aug. 25 at the age of 80, Gov. Kay Ivey is remembering the “American treasure” for a legacy that extends far beyond her music and continues to reach thousands of Alabama children each month.
Parton’s Imagination Library, which Ivey launched statewide in Alabama in 2023, now provides a free book each month to 116,000 children across the state.
“Dolly Parton was a true American treasure. While the world knew and loved her for her remarkable talent, her greatest legacy may very well be the countless lives she changed through her generosity and her belief in the potential of every child,” said Governor Ivey. “Dolly understood that putting a book in the hands of a young child can open a world of possibilities, and through her Imagination Library, she made sure millions of children had that opportunity.”
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Alabama provides free, high-quality, age-appropriate books each month to Alabama children from birth to age five. The program is administered by the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education in partnership with local organizations across the state and now serves children in all 67 counties.
“Here in Alabama, today, 116,000 Alabama children receive a free book in the mail each month through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Alabama, and more than 3 million books have been mailed to children across our state since we launched the statewide program,” continued Governor Ivey. “That is an extraordinary legacy, and one that will continue to make a difference in the lives of Alabama children for generations to come.”
“I join Alabamians in celebrating Dolly’s remarkable life and extend my prayers to her family, friends and the millions of people around the world who loved her. Alabama will proudly continue the work she began, helping our youngest learners develop a love of reading and reminding every child that their dreams are worth dreaming.”
“Dolly Parton gave us more than a book program. She gave us a mission rooted in the simple, but powerful belief that every child deserves the opportunity to read, learn and dream,” Governor Ivey added. “Alabama is honored to be part of that legacy, and we will continue putting books into the hands and homes of our children.”
Alabama families will soon have another way to help continue that legacy.
A specialty license plate benefiting Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has received enough pre-commitments to move into production and is expected to become available within the next eight to 12 weeks.
Proceeds from each plate will remain in the county where it is registered, helping provide monthly books to children enrolled in the program locally.
Parents and families can enroll eligible children in the program at Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Alabama.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
