I am deeply saddened by the news of Dolly Parton's passing. In her lifetime, she inspired millions, but nothing stands out more to me than her profound commitment to childhood literacy through the Imagination Library. When Dolly spoke about her legacy, she often said she wanted to be remembered for bringing books into the lives of children more than for her music. This passion came from her father, who was unable to read throughout his life, driving Dolly to launch this charitable program ensuring every child can embrace the joy of reading.

As a preschool teacher in Missouri, I witness firsthand the transformative power of books. I see the joy, curiosity, and growth in my students when they engage with stories, especially from a young age. Sadly, Missouri's literacy rates have been declining. Our children face challenges that could be overcome if they had access to resources like free monthly books from the Imagination Library. A book might seem like a simple object, but to a child, it is a window to the world, to creativity, to understanding.

The cost of books can be prohibitive for many families, and without programs like the Imagination Library, children's exposure to literature, critical for early development, is drastically reduced. Children who are read to from an early age have a much greater chance of growing up to love reading themselves, setting them up for future academic success and for leading enriched lives.

Restoring and protecting the funding for the Imagination Library is not just about honoring Dolly Parton's legacy; it's about giving the children of Missouri an equal opportunity to thrive. It's about acknowledging that education and literacy are fundamental rights that should be accessible to all, regardless of economic circumstances.

I urge the Missouri General Assembly to prioritize the future of our children and make one of the greatest investments possible. Let's honor Dolly Parton in the way she had always hoped to be remembered and ensure that her dream of a literate future for every child lives on.

Join me in advocating for our children's rights to knowledge and opportunity by signing this petition. Together, we can make a difference.