08/27/2026
In 1995, Dolly Parton began mailing books to children in her home county, hoping to inspire a lifelong love of reading in honor of her father, who could not read or write.
That idea lives here, too. Every month, 329 children in Knott County receive a new book in the mail—thanks to neighbors who support the program, volunteers who help make it possible, and a woman from Sevier County, Tennessee, who started it all.
Like Dolly, we believe that “you can never get enough books into the hands of enough children.” Hindman Settlement School is proud to be a partner of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library and to continue building on her incredible legacy for generations to come.
Here are three ways you can help carry that legacy forward:
1. Make a donation.
In lieu of flowers, Dolly’s family has asked that donations be made to the Imagination Library. You can give directly to the Knott County Affiliate here https://bit.ly/3cwJikY
Select the “I would like to designate this donation to a specific Imagination Library Local Program Partner” button and then choose KY-Knott as the local program partner.
2. Give a child the gift of reading.
If you have a child under the age of 5, sign them up for the Imagination Library here:
https://bit.ly/2BwMs8D
You can also sign up at Donuts and Dolly on Monday August 31 at the Knott County Public Library from 7:30am-9:00am and The Wandering Willow from 3:00pm-5:00pm!
3. Share your story.
Has the Imagination Library impacted your family? Share your story in the comments below. We would love to hear how these books have made a difference in your child’s life!
Thank you, Dolly, for believing in the power of a book and for giving children everywhere the opportunity to dream a little bigger.
We will always love you. ❤️
