Music icon Dolly Parton has made a public plea to Indiana Governor Mike Braun, urging him to reconsider the removal of state funding for her Imagination Library program. This initiative provides free books to children aged five and under, fostering a love of reading from an early age.
The Dollywood Foundation, through its Vice Chair and President Jeff Conyers, expressed hope that the Governor and Indiana Legislature will restore the crucial funding match for local Imagination Library programs. Conyers emphasized the unifying nature of the program, transcending political divides to benefit all children.
The Foundation stressed the importance of continued investment in the program, allowing it to reach children across Indiana. They aim to collaborate with key decision-makers to ensure uninterrupted book delivery to families throughout the state.
Parton's Imagination Library operates on a shared funding model, with contributions from the singer and local community partners. The program's reach extends beyond the US, encompassing Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and the Republic of Ireland.
The reason for the program's exclusion from the proposed budget remains unclear. However, Rep. Maureen Bauer has voiced her intention to reinstate the funding, highlighting its importance. She noted that the initial budget reflected the priorities of the newly elected Governor Braun.
Established in 1995, Parton's Imagination Library was inspired by her father's illiteracy. The program now serves children in five countries, distributing millions of free books monthly. It aims to instill a love of reading in preschool children and their families, providing them with a carefully selected book each month.
