MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WDNews) — Gov. Kay Ivey has proclaimed Friday, Sept. 25, as Dolly Day in Alabama, recognizing Dolly Parton’s life, legacy and commitment to children and families, according to the governor’s office.
The date is a nod to Parton’s iconic song “9 to 5.” The governor’s office said Dolly Day is intended to recognize Parton’s impact through her music, generosity and work to improve the lives of children.
“Dolly Day is a wonderful opportunity for Alabamians to celebrate the joy Dolly Parton brought to so many and the special legacy she created for our youngest learners,” Ivey said. “I encourage families across our state to mark the occasion in a way Dolly would surely appreciate by picking up a book, reading with a child and helping us inspire the next generation of Alabama readers.”
Parton founded Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in 1995 in Sevier County, Tennessee. Alabama established a statewide Imagination Library network in 2023, expanding the program to families in all 67 counties.
According to the governor’s office, more than 121,000 Alabama children are now enrolled in the program, and more than 3.1 million books have been mailed to children across the state.
Families can mark Dolly Day by reading with a child, enrolling eligible children in the Imagination Library or supporting their local program.
