Dolly Parton’s voice reached generations through songs like “Jolene” and “9 to 5.” But in Pittsburgh, one of her most meaningful legacies can be found in the hands of young children—inside the pages of books arriving at their homes.
More Than 306,000 Books Delivered to Pittsburgh Children
Through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, more than 306,000 free books have been delivered to families across Pittsburgh, giving children under age 6 their own books to read, share and treasure.
The program began in 1995 in Parton’s home county in Tennessee. Her vision was simple: put a high-quality, age-appropriate book directly into the hands of every young child, regardless of their family's circumstances. Today, the Imagination Library mails more than 1 million free books each month.
In Pittsburgh, the City’s Community Affairs team has taken an active role in making sure more families know about the program. Since taking on the local program in March, the team says approximately 1,500 new families have enrolled.
Her Legacy Will Continue
The national Imagination Library organization reflected on Parton’s extraordinary connection to the program following her death. Parton was especially proud that what began as a small effort had grown into a global movement.
She often connected the work to her father, who struggled with literacy. In her own words: “My Daddy told me the Imagination Library was probably the most important thing I had ever done.”
What started as a program serving children in one Tennessee county became an international literacy effort that has reached children around the world.
Pittsburgh’s Literacy Community Says Thank You
Reading Ready Pittsburgh called Parton a national treasure and an amazing champion for children’s literacy, thanking her for the impact of the Imagination Library on children in Pittsburgh and the Mon Valley.
For many families, literacy begins long before a child enters kindergarten. It begins when a parent opens a book with a toddler, when a child recognizes their name on a package, and when a young reader asks, “Can we read it again?”
A Legacy That Arrives in the Mail
The program sends books directly to children’s homes, making books accessible to families regardless of income. In Pittsburgh, that means more than 306,000 moments when a child has opened a package and discovered a new story.
The City says it will continue enrolling Pittsburgh families. Community partners remain committed to the work, and the number continues to grow.
In Pittsburgh, Dolly Parton’s legacy is not simply being remembered. It is being read.