How One Small Promise Inspired Dolly Parton to Give Away 300 Million Books and Change Millions of Lives. ML
Think about a number so big it is hard to imagine: 300 million. That is how many books Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has given away since it began in 1995. Every month, this amazing program sends free, brand-new books to children all around the world, mailing them directly to their homes. It is a heartwarming gift that proves how powerful a simple story can be for a young child’s life.
This huge success comes from a very personal and loving place in Dolly’s heart. She started the Imagination Library because of her own father, who unfortunately could not read or write. She saw the struggles he faced in life and did not want any other child to miss out on the joy and knowledge that comes from holding a book. Her mission is to grow a love of reading from the earliest age.
Dolly Parton The Imagination Library
Kids who get books from the Imagination Library are absolutely thrilled. Many parents say their children run to the mailbox just to see if their special book from Dolly has arrived yet. Getting a book addressed to them personally makes reading feel like an exciting event every month. Research also shows that parents read to their children more often because of the program, making stronger family bonds.
Dolly’s program now reaches millions of families, making sure babies and toddlers in the U.S., Canada, and beyond get a new story every month until they turn five. This ongoing, free gift of reading has brought joy to so many, yet the heart of the entire story goes back to one single person. This amazing gift was inspired by her desire to honor someone special in her life.
DollyParton reveals the inspiration behind her Imagination Library
In a recent clip, Dolly shared the beautiful and emotional reason behind her creation. She revealed that her father, Robert Lee Parton Sr., was the smartest man she ever knew. Dolly believes with deep certainty that his inability to read might have kept him from achieving all of his dreams in life. Because of this, the Imagination Library became her loving, lasting tribute to him.
This kind, lifelong commitment shows the true heart of Dolly Parton: always giving, honest, and caring deeply about family and community. Her music and her actions often tell stories of strength and simple goodness that everyone can understand. She proves that even the biggest stars do not forget where they came from. Follow Dolly Parton on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
