Honoring Dolly Parton’s legacy: Libraries seek donations to keep local Imagination Library thriving

TRI-CITY AREA — Following the passing of country music icon Dolly Parton, local community members are honoring her legacy of literacy by expanding support for the Four County Community Foundation’s Friends of Imagination Library.

The book-gifting initiative provides a free, age-appropriate book every month to 2,311 local children from birth to age 5 across 16 communities in Macomb, Oakland and Lapeer counties, regardless of family income. In response to an outpouring of community interest following Parton’s death on Aug. 25 at age 80, the foundation has placed collection jars in several area libraries where patrons can donate cash or scan a QR code to contribute online.

“Our community signed on to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in 2022 to give our children the best start in life,” said Kathy Markel, one of the local affiliate’s founders. “While our hearts are incredibly sad, we’re more inspired than ever to continue this important mission. Together, we are building a brighter future for our children.”

The Dollywood Foundation assured global affiliates that the program will move forward without interruption.

“Our organization is strong, our mission is clear, and our commitment to the children and families we serve has never been greater,” said Jeff Conyers, vice chair and president of The Dollywood Foundation. “Dolly didn’t build the Imagination Library to last for her lifetime. She built it to last for theirs.”

Sponsoring a child costs $31 for a one-year subscription or $156 to cover all 60 books over five years. The program currently serves young children in Addison, Almont, Armada, Attica, Dryden, Imlay City, Metamora, Memphis, New Haven, Ortonville, Oxford, Ray, Richmond, Romeo, Shelby and Washington.

Community members can learn more or donate online at bit.ly/4CCFImaginationLibrary, by calling 810-798-0909, or by mailing contributions to 4CCF, 141 S. Main St., Romeo, MI 48065.