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In the wake of Dolly Parton's passing, the outpouring of support for Dolly Parton's Imagination Library of Monongalia County has been a meaningful reminder of the impact one person's commitment to children and literacy can have on an entire community. From new registrations to generous donations, our community has continued to embrace Dolly's vision of putting books into the hands of children and helping families build a love of reading from an early age.
In the months since Dolly Parton's passing, increased visibility of the Imagination Library has brought renewed community interest and a surge in registrations. Since the program launched in Monongalia County in July 2018, 210,556 books have been mailed to local children. This fall, participation has grown significantly. Between July and September, 387 children registered for the program, compared to 182 during the same period last year, a 113 percent increase. September alone accounted for 15 percent of all registrations received in 2026. While registrations typically increase during the back-to-school season, this year's growth has been particularly notable. Between Sept. 1 and Oct. 1, the number of books mailed to local children increased by seven percent, compared to just 0.04 percent during the same period last year.
While registration numbers reflect the growing reach of the program, the community's financial support has been just as encouraging. The Imagination Library of Monongalia County has received more than $3,300 from 36 individual donors. Local businesses and community members also came together for a Dolly-themed drag show hosted by Babylon, which raised more than $3,100 for the program. These contributions help expand our capacity to enroll more children while introducing the program to new families and community members.
Today, 2,491 children are actively enrolled in Monongalia County, and 4,007 children have graduated from the program after aging out at five years old. Every book represents another opportunity for a child to explore new ideas, discover their imagination, and develop skills that will support them throughout their lives.
The United Way of Monongalia and Preston Counties Family Resource Network is also finding new ways to bring the Imagination Library to our community. This Halloween season, FRN Manager Victoria will host a Dolly-themed trunk at local trunk-or-treat events, giving parents and guardians the opportunity to learn more about the program, explore sample books, and discover how to enroll their children. These community events help ensure more families know that free books are available to every eligible child in Monongalia County, regardless of household income.
Dolly Parton's legacy lives through every story shared, every book opened, and every child given the opportunity to discover a love of reading. Community members can help continue that legacy by enrolling eligible children or donating to support local participation. To learn more, register a child or donate, visit www.unitedwaympc.org/DPIL.
Looking ahead, the community can also mark its calendars for the ninth annual Power of the Purse, scheduled for Thursday, June 17, 2027. Power of The Purse is the United Ways annual Fundraiser for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Hosted by Women United, an affinity group of the United Way of Monongalia and Preston Counties, Power of the Purse brings people together to celebrate the power of women supporting women and making a difference in our community. Women United creates opportunities for members to connect, build relationships and support initiatives that strengthen local families. Anyone interested in becoming a Women United member or learning more about the group is encouraged to reach out to Rachel for additional information at rachel@unitedwaympc.org.
Through literacy, community partnerships, and opportunities for women to make a collective impact, we can continue building a stronger community where every child and family has the opportunity to thrive.