Virginia Will Participate in Give Like Dolly Day
The state joins the inaugural global event on September 25 to support early childhood literacy efforts.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Philanthropy
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Should community members prioritize personal involvement to support early childhood literacy programs in their area?
Virginians are preparing to observe the first annual Give Like Dolly Day on September 25, 2026. The event encourages community members to donate to local literacy programs or spend time reading to children.
Why it matters
The day celebrates the work of the Imagination Library, which provides free monthly books to children from birth to age five. It honors Dolly Parton, who founded the program in 1995 to promote childhood literacy.
Since the Commonwealth of Virginia began investing in the Imagination Library, 3 million books have been gifted to children from birth to age five. Supporters are encouraged to participate by dedicating 15 minutes to reading with a child.
The players
Dolly Parton
She is a globally recognized musician and philanthropist who established the Imagination Library in 1995.
Elevate Early Education
Based in Virginia Beach, this organization acts as the state advocate for the Imagination Library of Virginia.
The Dollywood Foundation
This entity manages the Imagination Library and established the Give Like Dolly Day global event.
The details
Participants can contribute to the initiative by donating to local Imagination Library partners or by collaborating with Elevate Early Education. The program, which originated to honor the father of Dolly Parton, focuses on mailing one free book to children every month.
Timeline
1995: Dolly Parton founded the Imagination Library.
September 25, 2026: The first annual Give Like Dolly Day occurs.
Market Landscape
This initiative follows the 1995 founding of the Imagination Library and seeks to solidify the program's presence in the state. By institutionalizing this day, the foundation increases visibility in a competitive charitable sector focused on early education.
Residents can actively participate in the day by dedicating 15 minutes of their time to read with a child in their household or classroom. Financial contributions to local literacy partners help ensure the continued delivery of free books to children in the community.
The takeaway
Give Like Dolly Day highlights the importance of consistent access to books during the critical first five years of a childs development. Community members can easily participate by integrating 15 minutes of reading into their daily schedules.
Further reading
Learn more about the Philanthropy sector's role in supporting early education initiatives across the state.
More information
To find a local Imagination Library program or learn how to donate, visit the find a local Imagination Library program portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WAVY-TV 10 Hampton Roads.
Live Poll
Should community members prioritize personal involvement to support early childhood literacy programs in their area?
