Since 1995, the Imagination Library has been sending books out to children across multiple states. And in that time, the book gifting program started by Dolly Parton has expanded to include 21 states and even other countries, including Ireland, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada.
In honor of nearly 30 years of sharing the gift of reading, Parton took part in two different events, one in Lexington, Kentucky, and one in Kansas City, Missouri on August 27, where she talked about the program and what made her start the Imagination Library.
It turns out that the inspiration behind this program was her father, who passed away in 2000. According to Dolly Parton, her father was one of the smartest people she knew, but he was embarrassed by the fact that he couldn't read. Considering he had to help on the farm in order to make sure the family had what it needed to survive and thrive, it makes sense that he might have missed out on going to school.
Parton decided she wanted to do what she could to help children, especially children who might struggle to get their hands on reading material. The program started in her home state of Tennessee before rolling out to other states and even other countries.
Dolly Parton's Imagination Library is the gift that keeps on giving
According to AP News, since its inception, the Imagination Library has gifted books to more than 240 children in the U.S. and beyond, which is such an impressive feat. And of course, Parton revealed that the children call her "the book lady," which makes perfect sense (and we absolutely love).
While at the event in Kentucky, Dolly Parton explained that the book gifting program is, "really a great way to teach children when they’re very young to learn to love books and to learn to read." She also shared that this was her way of honoring her dad, who she said was the most proud of her for starting this program.
When it comes to a legacy, it is clear that Parton will remembered for so many wonderful things, not just her music and acting career. And when she was asked about what she hopes her legacy will be, she shared, that she really just wants to be remembered as "a good ole girl." She wants her legacy to revolve around the good that she did and hopefully for trying to make the world a little bit better in her own way.
As readers, it is hard to deny that Dolly Parton is doing her part to make the world a better place. And her efforts to spread the love of reading to children around the world are definitely a legacy that she can be proud of.
Did you know about Dolly Parton's Imagination Library and the reach that it has?