Dolly Parton generously provided numerous free books to children through her Imagination Library, a program she considered a privilege to be involved with, according to Chaya Kulkarni, a member of the book selection committee for the Imagination Library and the director of infant and early mental health promotion at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto.
Parton, who passed away at the age of 80, has been celebrated for her contributions as a country music and pop culture icon, as well as her philanthropic efforts. She established the Imagination Library in 1995 and has distributed over 300 million books globally, including five million books in Canada and 730,595 books in 2025 alone. Children eligible for the program receive one free book per month until they reach the age of five.
The program was initiated in honor of Parton’s father, who struggled with illiteracy. In expressing pride in the Imagination Library, Parton once stated that she valued it as much as any other accomplishment in her life.
Following her passing, Parton’s family requested donations to the Imagination Library in place of flowers, and the program has confirmed its commitment to continuing to provide free books to children.
Kulkarni shared insights on Parton’s character, emphasizing her kindness, generosity, and humility. She highlighted Parton’s dedication to inspiring others across various platforms, including musicians and individuals working with children.
The Imagination Library operates on a community-based model where communities must secure funding to support the program. Once funding is arranged, families can register to receive a monthly book for their children starting from as early as one month old. The books, often award-winning and diverse, are eagerly anticipated by children and contribute to their literary development and cultural awareness.
Parton’s engaging storytelling style and connection with children were evident during program events, where she captivated young audiences with her animated readings. Families can access recordings of Parton reading stories like “The Little Engine That Could,” further enhancing the bond between children and literature.
Parton’s legacy is marked by her profound impact on children’s love for stories, a gift that endures a lifetime. Being part of this legacy is deemed a privilege by those involved in the Imagination Library program.