Protecting Dolly Parton's Imagination Library
The governor's budget does not include funding for the early literacy program
Dear neighbor,
Yesterday, Feb. 6, the House Ways and Means Committee heard public testimony on Gov. Braun’s “Freedom and Opportunity” budget proposal. The proposal does not renew funding for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
Dolly is arguably one of America’s biggest superstars. She has a cherished place in our country’s cultural history not only as a musician but also as a philanthropist. Many families' lives have been changed through her early literacy program.
Her Imagination Library mails free, age-appropriate books to our children from infancy to five. Our kids can join this program regardless of their family’s income, zip code or other factors. By growing up in a home full of books, our young children practice their reading skills and foster a love of learning.
Indiana was blessed to become one of her partners in 2023 through a $6 million matching grant. Now, without explanation, Gov. Braun chose not to renew the Library’s funding in the state budget. With no funding, this great program truly could be one-and-done. Our children will be left with their imaginations but no library.
Hoosiers who want to continue funding Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library can contact the Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, Rep. Jeff Thompson, at h28@iga.in.gov or 1(800)382-9841.
Rest assured, House Dems will work “9 to 5” to reinstate Dolly Parton’s library in our state budget. As always, please reach out to my office at h96@iga.in.gov with any thoughts, questions or concerns.
In service,
State Rep. Gregory W. Porter
