Dolly Parton library marks its 1,000th Portland district graduate

More than 53,000 books and 1,000 kids later, the Dolly Parton Imagination Library program has left a lasting impression on the Glenelg Shire’s young readers.

Children registered with the Imagination Library receive a free, age-appropriate book in the mail each month. 

Music legend Dolly Parton launched the program in the US in 1995, before collaborating with charity organisation United Way in 2013 to bring Imagination Library to Australia, including the Glenelg Shire. 

A milestone worth marking

Now, more than a decade on, the program is celebrating a major milestone — the 1,000th child graduating from the program.

One of the children enrolled in the first year was Eden King, who also attended the official launch event in 2013.

“Some of my best memories are getting the books in the mailbox and reading together in the loungeroom or in bed with mum and dad,” King said. “We had books everywhere — on holidays, in the car, even on the plane. We packed them everywhere we went.”

King noted that the program helped her to develop good reading habits from a young age.

“It creates good habits, great outcomes, and it feels good when you receive something in the mail that is just for you.”

The power of words

United Way Glenelg Executive Officer, Nicole Carr, said Eden’s story perfectly captures the heart of the program.

“It highlights how powerful a book in a child’s hand can be. That early exposure builds confidence, connection, and curiosity that carries on for years.”

She said reaching the milestone of 1,000 graduates was ‘a significant moment for our community”.

Pictured are one of the Imagination Library’s first enrolled children, Eden King, with Peter Chellis from library sponsor Portland Aluminium in 2013, left, and this week, right. Image supplied.