Gov. Kay Ivey declares “Dolly Day” in Alabama

Gov. Kay Ivey signs proclamation naming September 25, 2026, as “Dolly Day” in Alabama, in memory of Dolly Parton – Photo from Office of Gov. Kay Ivey

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WAKA) – Gov. Kay Ivey has proclaimed Friday, September 25, (“9 two 5”) as Dolly Day in Alabama, to pay tribute to the life and career of county music superstar, actor and philanthropist Dolly Parton.

The date was chosen as a nod to Parton’s iconic song “9 to 5,” from the hit movie that featured her.

Gov. Ivey selected September 25 to serve as an opportunity to celebrate the lasting impact she made through her music, generosity and dedication to improving the lives of children.

“Dolly Day is a wonderful opportunity for Alabamians to celebrate the joy Dolly Parton brought to so many and the special legacy she created for our youngest learners,” Gov. Ivey said. “I encourage families across our state to mark the occasion in a way Dolly would surely appreciate by picking up a book, reading with a child and helping us inspire the next generation of Alabama readers.”

Founded by Parton in 1995 in her home county of Sevier County, Tennessee, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has grown into an international movement reaching millions of children. In 2023, Gov. Ivey signed Executive Order 729 establishing a statewide Imagination Library network in Alabama, helping expand access to families in all 67 counties.

The program continues to grow, with more than 121,000 Alabama children now enrolled and more than 3.1 million books mailed to children across the state.

Dolly Day also recognizes the families, educators, community partners and supporters across Alabama who continue her mission by helping put books into the hands and homes of the state’s youngest learners.

Parents and families can take part in Dolly Day by enrolling eligible children in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Alabama at imaginationlibrary.com. Alabamians can also mark the occasion by reading with a child, sharing the joy of books or making a contribution to their local Imagination Library program to help provide books to children in communities across the state.

— Information from the Office of Governor Kay Ivey