Entertainment
Tennessee lawmakers propose full state funding for Dolly Parton's Imagination Library
Legislative leaders plan to include funding in the 2027 state budget to cover local costs for the early childhood literacy program.
The short version
- Tennessee legislative leaders announced a proposal to fully fund Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library through the state's 2027 budget.
- The plan would shift the 50% funding burden currently handled by local community partners onto the state government.
- The initiative requires formal approval during the upcoming state budgeting process before taking effect next year.
Key facts
- Tennessee House Speaker Cameron Sexton and Chairman Bo Watson pledged to incorporate full state funding for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library into the 2027 budget.[Billboard]
- Under the existing system, the Governor's Early Literacy Foundation covers 50% of book and shipping costs with state support, while local community partners fund the remaining 50%.[Billboard]
- As of 2025, approximately 70% of eligible Tennessee children are enrolled in the monthly book-gifting program.[Billboard]
- The proposal follows the death of program founder Dolly Parton on August 25 at age 80.[Billboard]
What remains uncertain
- Whether the funding proposal will secure final passage through the broader state legislature during the 2027 budgeting process.[Billboard]