A final note penned by country music icon Dolly Parton to children receiving the last free book from her Imagination Library program has gained significant attention following her death.
Parton, who passed away at age 80, established the Imagination Library in 1995. The program distributes monthly books to children in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Ireland, and Australia until they reach the age of five. The organization has gifted over 300 million books since its inception.
In her letter to what she termed "Imagination Library Graduates," Parton reflected on the passage of time. "It seems it was only yesterday when your family and friends read you your first story. You were just a baby. Now you’re 5 years old and about to go to school. How exciting!"
The singer encouraged the young readers to continue their literary journeys. "This may be your last book from my Imagination Library, but you have to promise me you will keep on reading," she wrote. "If you go to your local public library, you will find a great number of books just for kids your age."
Parton described each book as a "treasure," adding, "Every time you open one up you will meet new friends and take wonderful journeys to magical places."
She also shared life lessons inspired by her family. "Dream big dreams; learn everything you can learn; and care for all those who care for you," Parton advised. "You do all of these things and you can be anyone you want to be. You are terrific."
Parton concluded her message with a nod to her 1974 hit song, writing, "Remember … I Will Always Love You, Dolly."
The final book sent through the program for each child was "Look Out Kindergarten, Here I Come!" Children initially received a copy of "The Little Engine That Could."
Following Parton's death, her family requested that donations be made to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in lieu of flowers. The program is set to continue operating in Parton's absence, as is her Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Eugene Naughton, President of Dollywood Parks & Resorts, stated that the park is "committed to carry her light forward" and that her legacy "will continue to shine."