KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI) – Dolly Parton’s legacy of promoting childhood literacy will continue through the Imagination Library, a program that has delivered millions of free books to children in East Tennessee and more than 200 million worldwide.
Following Parton’s death, officials with the Knox County Imagination Library say they remain committed to carrying forward the beloved literacy initiative she founded to encourage a love of reading among young children.
The program mails a free, new, age-appropriate book each month to enrolled children from birth until their fifth birthday. By the time participants enter kindergarten, they can build a personal library of up to 60 books.
Dolly Parton became known around the world as the “Book Lady” because of the program’s impact on literacy and early childhood education.
Local Families See the Benefits
Knoxville mother Allison Whitaker said all three of her children have been enrolled in the program since birth.
She said her children eagerly watch for their monthly book deliveries and have developed a love of reading through the program.
Whitaker said the books create opportunities for families to spend meaningful time together and encourage imagination and learning.
A Personal Mission for Dolly
Knox County Advisory Board Chair Bonnie Naugher said the Imagination Library was inspired by Parton’s father, who struggled with reading.
According to Naugher, Parton recognized how literacy affects opportunity and family life, which motivated her to create a program that would place books directly into the hands of children.
“Dolly is, and always will be, the face and the heart of the program,” Naugher said.
Naugher also pointed to research highlighting the value of reading to young children. She said brain imaging studies have shown that being read to stimulates areas of the brain associated with imagination and language development.
Local studies have also indicated that children who participate in the Imagination Library often enter school with stronger literacy skills than their peers.
Community Support Growing
The Knox County branch says it has received an outpouring of support from community members interested in helping continue Parton’s mission.
Officials say they plan to keep raising funds and delivering books to ensure future generations continue receiving the same opportunities that have benefited thousands of local families.
Parton’s family has asked that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to support the Imagination Library and its efforts to provide free books to children around the world.
About the Program
- Free for families
- Available from birth through age 5
- One free book mailed each month
- More than 200 million books distributed worldwide
- More than 4 million books mailed to children in Knox County
Supporters can learn more or make a donation through the Imagination Library’s website. https://imaginationlibrary.com/
