Canceling Dolly?
- Katy O'Neill
- Jun 3
- 2 min read
I received this email and couldn't believe what I was reading: Missouri’s legislature just canceled Dolly! Who does that? No common sense. You gotta send me to Congress!
Here is what the email said...
An Important Update for Dolly Parton's Imagination Library Families in MissouriDear Imagination Library Family,Thank you for being part of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. It means the world to us that a book arrives at your door each month, with your child's name on it, just for them.We have some difficult news to share, and we want to be straightforward with you about what is happening and why. |
What is changingIn 2023, the State of Missouri and The Dollywood Foundation formed a partnership to fully fund the Imagination Library statewide, so that every eligible child in Missouri could receive free books at home. That partnership grew quickly. Today, nearly 170,000 Missouri children receive a book from Dolly each month. The current state budget includes a significant reduction in funding for this program, driven by decisions made at the state legislature and the governor's office. Because of that reduction, the program will close to new enrollments on July 1, 2026. If your child is already enrolled, books will continue arriving until the funds run out. We expect that to happen within 4 to 6 months.
What are we doing about itThe Dollywood Foundation is working with members of the Missouri House and Senate to seek restoration of full funding before the budget is finalized. We are also exploring other funding sources to help keep books going for children who are currently enrolled. We will keep you updated as that work continues.
What families can do to help
Contact your local state representative and share how meaningful Dolly Parton's Imagination Library has been to your family. The Dollywood Foundation entered a partnership with the state of Missouri in 2023 and remains deeply committed to Missouri's children and families, so we are not giving up. We are grateful to every family who has joined us on this journey, and we hope to share better news soon. With gratitude, The Dollywood Foundation |
Here is the link to the email:
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