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To the Journal editor:
This week, we mourn the loss of Dolly Parton, a woman known for her talent, kindness, humor and generosity. But as an educator, I will remember her for her commitment to literacy.
Dolly understood that something as simple as putting a book into the hands of a child can open a door that changes a life. Inspired by her father, who could not read or write, she created Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, which grew from her Tennessee community into an extraordinary literacy movement reaching millions of children.
I know how powerful books can be. I was a shy little girl, and books and learning helped open the world to me. I could not have imagined then that I would spend more than 60 years as an educator, helping others discover their own opportunities through literacy and learning.
Throughout my life, I have believed we should never decide for children what they can or cannot become. Our job is to encourage their curiosity, give them the tools to learn and help them find their own path.
Dolly did that in a beautifully personal way. A book arrives in the mailbox with a child's name on it. It belongs to them. Someone opens it and begins to read. A question is asked. A new word is learned. A dream begins.
Here in Michigan, we have been privileged to help carry that vision forward through the Literacy Legacy Fund of Michigan and Dolly Parton's Imagination Library.
As we remember Dolly, I hope we also continue her work. Read to a child. Give someone a book. Encourage a struggling student. Tell a shy little girl that her voice matters.
Sometimes an open door begins with a book. And sometimes that child grows up to spend a lifetime opening doors for others.
I encourage others to continue Dolly's commitment to literacy by supporting literacy efforts. To learn more, visit https://literacylegacyfund.org/how-you-can-help-2/