EVERETT — Among singer and actress Dolly Parton’s countless accomplishments, most fans won’t instantly associate the Tennessee legend’s enduring support of reading and literacy.
United Way of Snohomish County wants to make sure Parton’s immense contributions supporting childhood reading continue after her passing at age 80, yesterday, as a tribute to her iconic life.
Parton established The Imagination Library in 1995, donating an estimated 300 million free books to children since the creation of her signature philanthropic achievement.
United Way of Snohomish County praised Parton’s off-stage vision for the literacy program saying, “While she leaves an extraordinary legacy in music, entertainment, and philanthropy, one of her most enduring contributions is Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library—a program built on the belief that every child should grow up surrounded by books.”
Parton’s family asked that donations be made
to the Imagination Library in lieu of flowers when her death was announced.
United Way of Snohomish County is encouraging North Sound residents to honor Parton’s legacy by supporting the local Imagination Library program.
“Dolly understood that books do more than teach children to read—they open doors to
imagination, confidence, connection, and possibility,” Inga Paige, Executive Director of
United Way of Snohomish County said in a statement. Encouraging fans and reading lovers alike, Paige continues, “The most meaningful tribute we can offer is to make sure her work continues for the next generation.”
Since launching the Imagination Library of Snohomish County in 2023, United Way has:
• Mailed more than 375,000 books to local children
• Engaged more than 20,000 children countywide
• Graduated more than 6,900 early readers into kindergarten
• Built one of the largest Imagination Library programs in Washington State
The Snohomish County program, UWOSC says, reaches families across urban, suburban, and rural communities throughout Snohomish County, helping families build home libraries, establish reading routines, and prepare young children for kindergarten.
A gift of $31 provides one Snohomish County child with 12 books—one delivered to their
home every month for a full year. A gift of $156 can sponsor a child from birth through age
five.
To make a gift in Dolly Parton’s honor, visit uwsc.org/sponsor-child.