Dolly Parton's legacy lives on through free books for NC children
DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- Dolly Parton is being remembered not only for her music, but also for her efforts to promote childhood literacy through the Imagination Library program, which provides free books to young children across North Carolina.
North Carolina was the first state outside Parton's native Tennessee to expand the Dolly Parton Imagination Library statewide. The program mails a free book each month to enrolled children from birth to age 5, creating what local leaders describe as a lasting legacy of learning.
"It's hard not thinking about Dolly Parton without smiling... or singing," said Kate Irish of Durham's Partnership for Children. Referencing one of Parton's best-known songs, Irish added, "Jolene oh my gosh, we might have a little playlist going for the rest of the week."
Leaders with local Partnerships for Children and Smart Start organizations said Parton's impact extends far beyond entertainment.
"Giving every kid and family and chance and making sure kids and families have a chance to read books and have the things Dolly didn't have growing up," Irish said.
"So what Dolly Parton has made possible for us is a gift for generations to come, not just children today, but for generations to come," said Gayle Headen of Wake County Smart Start.
SEE ALSO: A look back at Dolly Parton's legendary career
The Imagination Library began as a tribute to Parton's father, who never learned to read. Growing up in the Tennessee mountains, Parton wanted to ensure children could receive free books by mail every month from birth through age 5.
The program's success in Tennessee led to its expansion into North Carolina. In 2019, Parton appeared at Marbles Kids Museum in Raleigh to celebrate the initiative.
In Wake County alone, more than 75,000 children have received 2 million books through the program since it began there. Program leaders said some parents in Chatham County sign up their children while they are still in the hospital after birth. A cardboard cutout of Parton has also become a fixture at community events.
"Dolly is really like the iconic Gigi and you would be surprised how many people young and old that want to take a picture with Dolly," said Heather St. Clair of the Chatham County Partnership for Children.
The first book many children receive through the program is The Little Engine That Could, which includes the signature line, "I think I can."
"And so I just think that she understood that a book is not just a book it is a way to open up a child's mind, to be a storyteller, and experience life in much more colorful way," St. Clair said.
Since 2017, more than 21 million books have been distributed to children across North Carolina through the program. The state's new budget also includes funding intended to keep the initiative operating in every county.
