Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Faces Defunding

Indiana recently swore in its new governor, Mike Braun.

(Left) imaginationlibrary.com (Right) Photo by Dave Hogan/Getty Images

Braun, a former U.S. Senator, took the oath of office on two Bibles: one that was used when Benjamin Harrison was sworn in as president and one of his own. He is the 52nd governor of Indiana and a member of the Republican Party.

Braun is following in Donald Trump’s footsteps by proposing a new budget for the state.

Donald Trump’s new Department DOGE, which Elon Musk unofficially runs, is making significant cuts. It even proposes to give 20% of the money back to American taxpayers.

However, one of the programs at risk of being cut is an initiative started by Dolly Parton: The Imagination Library.

What Is The Imagination Library?

This program aims to help future generations learn to read by allowing parents to sign up and receive one free book each month for their child until age five.

A representative for Dolly Parton released a statement saying, “We are hopeful that Governor Braun and the Indiana Legislature will continue this vital investment by restoring the state’s funding match for local Imagination Library programs. The beauty of the Imagination Library is that it unites us all — regardless of politics — because every child deserves the chance to dream big and succeed.”

The representative also noted that the program has provided over 260 million books since its founding and currently serves approximately 125,000 children each month.

“The State of Indiana has been a proud partner in bringing Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to over 125,000 Hoosier children each month. Together, we’ve helped nurture a love of reading, given families precious moments of joy, and built a foundation for lifelong learning.”

Only time will tell if Dolly’s beloved program will continue.

Parton explained in the video below that she founded the nonprofit in honor of her father, who struggled with reading. Watch her founding story below.