Oregon Governor Proclaimed Dolly Parton Day
Governor Tina Kotek honored the singer for her efforts to expand early literacy access across the state.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Awards
Governor Tina Kotek has officially designated September 25 as Dolly Parton Day in Oregon. The proclamation follows the achievement of statewide coverage by the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.
Why it matters
The day recognizes Parton's enduring commitment to children's literacy and celebrates the successful expansion of her book-gifting program to every corner of Oregon.
The Imagination Library achieved statewide coverage following the launch of the 57th Local Program Partner last year. Dolly Parton previously honored the region by writing the song Eugene, Oregon in 1972.
The players
Tina Kotek
Tina Kotek is the Governor of Oregon who signed the official proclamation designating the holiday.
Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton is an iconic country music singer and philanthropist who founded the Imagination Library.
Dolly Parton Imagination Library
The Dolly Parton Imagination Library is a book gifting organization that mails free, high-quality books to children from birth to age five.
The details
Governor Tina Kotek hosted a ceremonial signing event on September 25 to finalize the proclamation. The state-level designation highlights the growth of the literacy initiative which provides free books to children regardless of their location.
Timeline
Dolly Parton wrote the song Eugene, Oregon in 1972.
The 57th Local Program Partner launched in 2025.
The ceremonial signing event occurred on September 25, 2026.
September 25, 2026, marks the inaugural Dolly Parton Day in Oregon.
Culture Shift
This state recognition reflects a growing societal focus on integrating philanthropic literacy models into public education frameworks. It marks a formalization of the connection between Oregon residents and the legacy established by the 1972 release of the song Eugene, Oregon.
Families across Oregon now have standardized access to the book-gifting services provided by the library's 57 local partners. Residents can participate in annual recognition of the day as part of the state's ongoing commitment to childhood reading.
The takeaway
The proclamation solidifies the state's partnership with a national program that prioritizes early childhood education. Oregonians looking to support literacy efforts can contact their local program partner to volunteer or donate books.
Further reading
Learn more about local honors and recognitions in the Awards section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KQEN News Radio.
