Dolly Parton generously provided millions of free books to children worldwide through her Imagination Library, a program she considered a great honor. Chaya Kulkarni, a member of the book selection committee for the Imagination Library and director of infant and early mental health promotion at Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children, emphasized how deeply personal and heartfelt the program was to Parton.
Parton, who passed away at the age of 80, left behind a remarkable legacy as a country music and pop culture icon and a dedicated philanthropist. Since its inception in 1995, the Imagination Library has distributed over 300 million books globally, with five million books gifted in Canada and over 730,000 in 2025 alone. Eligible children receive a free book monthly until they reach the age of five.
In memory of her father, who struggled with illiteracy, Parton initiated the program and expressed immense pride in its impact. Following her death, her family requested donations to the Imagination Library instead of flowers, and the program confirmed its ongoing book distribution efforts.
Kulkarni shared insights into the program’s operation, noting that communities must join to support the initiative financially. Once established, families can register to receive monthly books addressed to the child. The collection features award-winning works, emphasizing Canadian authors and illustrators as well as diverse cultural perspectives.
Parton’s ability to connect with children was highlighted through her engaging storytelling sessions and recorded readings, such as “The Little Engine That Could,” which families can access. Her lasting legacy lies in the millions of children she inspired to love reading, a gift Kulkarni considers a privilege to be a part of.