During a recent government meeting, Dolly Parton shared insights into her philanthropic initiative, the Imagination Library, which has now expanded to serve children in all 120 counties of Kentucky. The program, which provides free books to children from birth until they start kindergarten, aims to foster a love for reading and learning among young children. Parton emphasized the program's roots, inspired by her father's struggles with literacy, and highlighted its growth from a local initiative in Sevier County, Tennessee, to a global effort that has distributed over 240 million books.
Parton expressed her gratitude for the program's success and the support it has received, noting that it is not limited to low-income families but is available to all children. She encouraged attendees to consider supporting the initiative through state vanity license plates, which help fund the program.
In addition to discussing the Imagination Library, Parton reflected on her family's influence on her life and career, particularly her parents' roles in shaping her values and aspirations. She shared anecdotes about her mother's creativity and resourcefulness, which inspired her famous song \"Coat of Many Colors.\"
Parton also teased upcoming projects, including a new frozen food line and a Broadway musical based on her life, set to debut in 2026. As the meeting concluded, she delighted the audience with a live performance of \"Coat of Many Colors,\" reinforcing her commitment to using her platform to promote literacy and family values.