Oregon Pledges to Continue Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library After Philanthropist’s Death
Oregon lawmakers and literacy advocates are mourning the death of philanthropist Dolly Parton. They are pledging to continue her signature early literacy initiative, the Imagination Library, which provides free books to children from birth to age five statewide. The program…
Portland, OR, August 25, 2026 —
Oregon lawmakers and literacy advocates are vowing to uphold the legacy of philanthropist Dolly Parton by continuing her acclaimed early literacy program, the Imagination Library, following her recent death. The initiative, which aims to foster a love of reading in young children, has been a cornerstone of early childhood education efforts in the state.
The Imagination Library provides free books to children from birth up to the age of five. The program’s reach in Oregon is extensive, operating in all zip codes and counties across the state. Currently, thousands of children are enrolled in the program, benefiting from the regular delivery of age-appropriate books directly to their homes.
Literacy advocates and state officials have expressed their commitment to ensuring the program’s continuation, highlighting its significant impact on early childhood development and educational preparedness. The loss of Ms. Parton is deeply felt by those involved in the initiative, but the resolve to keep the Imagination Library thriving remains strong.
The program’s operational scope across the entirety of Oregon underscores its widespread importance and the broad support it has garnered. The ongoing commitment signifies a dedication to the principles of early literacy that Dolly Parton championed throughout her life.
Story summarized from the original created by FOX 12 Staff on www.kptv.com, see more information here.
