“Why I Do It” – Dolly Parton, Imagination Library & A Mission Bigger Than Music

Dylan Kickham

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We all know Dolly Parton as the queen of country music, the woman behind hits like “Jolene” and “9 to 5”, and a total rhinestone-wearing icon. But in this emotional and inspiring PBS interview, Dolly proves once again that she’s so much more than a superstar. In the short video “ Dolly Parton on why she devoted her life to helping children read,” she shares a story that’ll touch your heart—and maybe even make you tear up. Forget the stage lights—this is Dolly at her realest.

In this moving interview with PBS NewsHour’s Judy Woodruff, Dolly opens up about why she started the Imagination Library, her nonprofit that gives free books to children from birth to age 5. The spark? Her father, who couldn’t read or write. Dolly says, “I wanted to do something to help him,” and with that simple goal, she ended up launching a global movement. Over 150 million books have been delivered to kids across five countries. Her voice might be soft, but the message hits hard—reading changes lives.

WATCH: Dolly Parton on why she devoted her life to helping children read

Fans and families everywhere felt the love. Comments on the video are filled with parents thanking Dolly for the books their kids receive, teachers cheering her on, and fans saying, “This is why we love her.” Dolly didn’t just sing her way into our hearts—she read her way into them too.

What’s amazing about Dolly is how everything connects—her songs, her stories, her soul. After learning about the Imagination Library, her song “Coat of Many Colors” hits even harder. It’s about growing up with little money but tons of love. Just like a free book can mean the world to a child, that homemade coat meant everything to young Dolly.

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Dolly Parton – Coat Of Many Colors

“Coat of Many Colors” is one of Dolly’s most loved songs. Fans say it makes them cry happy tears. It reminds people that what really matters isn’t stuff—it’s love, creativity, and kindness.

Wanna see what Dolly’s doing next? Follow her on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and TikTok. She’s always sharing music, smiles and inspiring moments.

Mix – Dolly parton’s greatest hits