Dolly Parton’s Legacy Lives on Through Local Readers

ZANESVILLE, OH – Dolly Parton may have been known for the stories she told through her songs, but her legacy can also be found in the pages of books.

For decades, Parton entertained generations with her music, but away from the stage, she also made it her mission to give children a better start through reading. Through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, children receive a free book in the mail every month from birth until they turn five. And here locally, those books have made their way into the homes of families across Muskingum County.

“It’s made a huge impact. She’s done something that I think anybody that’s part of literacy or has connections with books is trying to do. Getting those books into those homes, especially with those that can’t come to the library. it doesn’t matter because the books come to them.” MCLS Youth Service Manager, Katie Merritt said.

Parton launched the Imagination Library in 1995, inspired by her father who never had the opportunity to learn to read or write. What started in her Tennessee hometown grew into a program reaching children around the world, opening doors through something as simple as a book.

“Dolly created a fantastic service. Literacy is the base of it all. Starting to read will open so many doors, and she’s opened the door for so many kids.” Merritt said.

For some young readers, Dolly Parton may be a name they won’t recognize until they’re older. But long before they know her songs, they’ll have already been touched by her legacy, one book at a time.

The Imagination Library continues providing free books to children up to age five, with local libraries including the Muskingum County Library System and the Guernsey County District Public Library helping families access the program.