Dolly Parton partnered DC library program delivers 1 millionth book to a child
WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 27: Singer Dolly Parton reads her book, "The Coat of Many Colors" to schoolchildren at The Library of Congress on February 27, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Shannon Finney/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON - Almost four years ago the D.C. Library and country legend Dolly Parton teamed up to put books in the hands of children.
On Wednesday, the Books from Birth campaign celebrated a major milestone when it gave its 1 millionth book to a D.C. child.
The program sends a free book to kids under the age of 5 each month.
In a letter, Dolly Parton congratulated the program, saying, “So…from the bottom of my heart, thank you for helping inspire children in D.C. to dream more…learn more…care more…and be more.”
Local officials also lauded the program, particularly on social media.
“In just four years, more than 46,000 young District readers have been able to open the mailbox and pull out a book just for them. My oldest daughter is a proud graduate of the program and is now an avid reader. My 3-year-old eagerly checks the mail each month for his new book and we read it together that night,” said Councilmember Charles Allen.
Although any child in the District under the age of 5 is eligible, the program targets children in low income neighborhoods.