The legacy of country‑music icon Dolly Parton lives on in Northeast Wisconsin through a program that embodies her belief in the power of reading. The Imagination Library, founded by Parton 31 years ago, delivers one free, age‑appropriate book each month to children until they turn five. In the Green Bay and Manitowoc areas, local affiliates are now serving more than 2,100 families, reinforcing the region’s dedication to strong families and early education.
Green Bay’s Howe Community Resource Center expands reach
Since launching the program in 2023, the Howe Community Resource Center has grown its enrollment to between 750 and 800 families. Executive Director Corrissa Frank said the monthly mailings spark excitement among children, who love receiving a book addressed to them by name. “Their kids are excited about reading. They’re excited to get mail, you know, with their name on it,” Frank explained.
Manitowoc County’s United Way boosts participation
United Way Manitowoc County became an affiliate in 2024. Program and Outreach Director Ben Peters reported that the county now supports 1,300 active participants, with more than 350 children having already graduated from the program. “Altogether we’ve mailed just shy of 24,000 books to kids in Manitowoc County,” Peters noted, highlighting the substantial impact on early literacy.
Uniform start and finish books reinforce learning
All children in the Imagination Library begin with the classic “The Little Engine That Could,” and they graduate with “Look Out Kindergarten Here I Come.” This shared reading experience creates a common foundation for young learners across the region.
Fundraising keeps the books flowing
Affiliates cover the $2.60 cost per book through community fundraising. In Manitowoc, a “Dolly Walk” organized by the United Way’s Women United Action Committee has become a popular event. Chairperson Erin Erlandson described the two‑mile lakeside walk, complete with participants wearing “Dolly wigs,” as a celebration of both Dolly Parton and the joy of reading.
Additional outreach through Empowered Tutoring
Empowered Tutoring, another local affiliate, extends the program to children in Kaukauna, Greenleaf, Seymour, Kimberly, and Wrightstown. The organization issued a statement expressing sorrow at Parton’s passing while reaffirming its commitment to the program’s mission of fostering a love of books in every child.
Why the program matters to families
Early childhood reading is linked to stronger academic performance, higher graduation rates, and more stable family dynamics. By providing free books, the Imagination Library supports parents who wish to instill a love of reading without the financial burden of purchasing new titles each month. The program’s growth in Northeast Wisconsin reflects a community-wide embrace of these values.
Continuing Parton’s philanthropic spirit
Although Dolly Parton passed away after a brief battle with cancer, her philanthropic spirit endures through the thousands of books mailed each year. Local leaders credit the program with strengthening families, encouraging literacy, and reinforcing the region’s commitment to nurturing the next generation.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
