Gov. Laura Kelly signs bill supporting Dolly Parton library

TOPEKA (KSNT) – On Friday, Governor Laura Kelly signed a bipartisan bill to form a nonprofit that will contribute to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.

Senate Bill 195 will allow the establishment of a corporation to collect donations, gifts, grants and participate in fundraising activities.

“Strengthening children’s literacy skills and ensuring parents can access these resources is crucial to early childhood development,” Kelly said. “We know that children’s earliest years shape their academic and social outcomes for the rest of their lives. I’m proud to sign this bill to expand the reach of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library and equip more Kansas families with books.”

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Kelly and the Kansas Legislature’s expansion of funding to the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund made the establishment possible, according to a press release from the Office of the Governor.

“The Kansas Children’s Cabinet has been delighted to serve as statewide lead for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. To date, our focus has been on ensuring full statewide coverage for all Kansas families,” said Executive Director of the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund Melissa Rooker. “We are excited to take the next step so that we can fully engage with the private sector and fundraise to ensure the longevity and sustainability of this worthwhile program.”

Close to 75,000 children are enrolled in the program in Kansas. Since the announcement of the expansion last July, 26,000 more children have enrolled.

“Well Kansas, we did it! Let’s celebrate by registering as many children and families as we can to receive the gift of Imagination Library books right to their home each month,” said Dolly Parton. “Together, we can inspire children across Kansas to love books and reading, and that’s a gift that will last a lifetime.”

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If you’d like to enroll you kids in the Imagination Library of Kansas, click here.

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