Dolly Parton’s Children’s Literacy Legacy, from Publisher’s Weekly.
Through her Dollywood Foundation, Parton created the Imagination Library in 1995 as a tribute to her father, who felt shame over his inability to read or write, something she believed prevented him from realizing his dreams. “Inspiring kids to love to read became my passion and my mission,” she said in a welcome video on the program’s website, noting that books often inspire children’s dreams for their future, and “if you can read you can teach yourself anything.”
Dana sez–
Parents and children both have cause to be grateful for Dolly Parton’s presence on this earth. So do writers. I saw an interview with her where she said she most wanted to be remembered as “the book lady.”
Done.
Thank you, Dolly, for helping turn millions of kids around the world into readers.
2 Comments Leave a comment ›
Retired Connecticut library director here. I wish more people knew that her Imagination Library requires a local annual cash match. IL doesn’t -couldn’t – cover the cost of all those books, and a local buy-in underscores the value of the program. Many libraries, including mine, just couldn’t stretch their budgets to cover the cost, or couldn’t find a local organization or donor. Back around 2010, our cost share would have been just under $2,000/year for a town of 16,000. Doesn’t sound like a lot, but small town library budgets are always stretched right to the limit. I would have loved to be able to provide this amazing program to the kids in town!
It’s still going. Maybe there’s a donor out there now?