Tennessee Leaders Announce Plans To Provide 100% Of Funding For Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library In Tennessee

This week, Tennessee House Speaker Cameron Sexton (R-Crossville) and Chairman Bo Watson (R-Hixon) pleaded for Tennessee to pick up the cost of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library as part of Tennessee’s budget in 2027.  

“Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is one of Tennessee’s greatest gifts to the next generation,” said Speaker Sexton. “What started in Tennessee is now in all 50 states. Millions of children have been inspired and discovered a love of reading because of Dolly. There is no better way to honor her extraordinary legacy than to ensure every single Tennessee child, in every county and every community, continues to have access to the Imagination Library for generations to come.”  

Dolly’s Parton’s Imagination Library began in Sevier County in 1995. Inspired by her father’s humble beginnings, she set out to give young children access to book and inspire a love of reading. For over 20 years, Dolly’s Foundation delivered more than 304 million bucks directly to children across the United States and around the world, free of charge. As of 2025, nearly 40% of Tennessee children are enrolled in the program.  

“Doing whatever is necessary to improve early literacy has always been a top priority of mine,” said Chairman Watson. “Dolly Parton has always been a pioneer in the movement to improve children’s lives through books and reading, and she has left a lasting legacy on the country. We are honored to continue the work she started through her Imagination Library.”  

Currently, the Governor’s Early Literacy Foundation works with local governments to ensure free books are available to children in every corner of Tennessee. Due to Tennessee’s strong fiscal position, as a result of effective leadership, the state has the funds to make this happen.