Dolly: A Real Rhinestone
Published on September 04, 2026
By Tricia B.
I grew up visiting my dad in Tennessee every summer, and one thing we both loved was listening to Tennessee-native Dolly Parton. Dolly was a musician, author, actress, and philanthropist who was always unapologetically herself, with a kind and caring spirit that shone through everything she did. I’ve always admired her for her work and her larger-than-life personality, but most of all for her passion for literacy.
Through Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, more than 304 million free books have been gifted to children from birth to age five around the world. Talk about an impact!
When I had the opportunity to see Dolly on stage in 2016 at the Denny Sanford Premier Center, I was in awe. Her energy and charisma were undeniable. Dolly's 11 Grammy Awards and 26 number-one hits are impressive, but I think her greatest talent was making people feel cared for, seen, and supported. That is what made her a true rhinestone of a human being.
I am mourning her passing, but I know that through the countless lives she touched, her work continues to make a difference.
Dolly Parton's Imagination Library
I recommend Dolly Parton's Imagination Library to every family with children under five. Once enrolled, children receive a free book every month until their fifth birthday.
Dolly started the program as a way to increase childhood literacy, inspired in part by her father, who was unable to read. What an honorable, beautiful way to turn a personal experience into a gift that has reached millions of children and families.
A Little More Dolly
If you're searching the library catalog and want a little more Dolly in your life, here are some of my favorite ways to remember this incredible artist.
9 to 5 is a funny, empowering comedy about three women who stand up to their sexist and overbearing boss. It’s a classic that perfectly captures Dolly Parton’s charm and spirit.
Steel Magnolias is a heartfelt story about the strong bonds of friendship and family among a group of women in a small Southern town. Filled with humor, love, and heartbreak, it celebrates the strength and resilience of women who support one another through life's joys and challenges.
Dolly Parton, Star of the Show is a celebration of Dolly’s incredible life and career, from her humble beginnings in Tennessee to her rise as a beloved country music superstar. With stories and photographs highlighting her music, acting, style, and philanthropy, it’s a wonderful tribute to the many ways Dolly has inspired and entertained generations.
Dolly Parton, Songteller: My Life in Lyrics takes readers through Dolly’s remarkable life and career, using the stories behind some of her most beloved songs. Filled with personal memories, photographs, and lyrics, it offers a heartfelt look at the woman and experiences behind the music.
Coat of Many Colors is a beautifully illustrated children’s book based on Dolly’s beloved song and the true story of the coat her mother made for her. It celebrates family, love, and being proud of what makes you different.
Run, Rose, Run by James Patterson and Dolly Parton is a fast-paced thriller about a young singer-songwriter chasing her dream of becoming a country music star while running from a dangerous secret. It’s a great choice for readers who enjoy a little Dolly-style sparkle with their thrills.
Dolly Parton showed us that you can dream big, stay true to yourself, and still make room to help others along the way. Her legacy of kindness, creativity, and generosity will continue to inspire readers, dreamers, and music lovers for generations to come.