Tamworth's youngest book lovers donned their sequins and denim for a great cause today as local early learning centres take part in Dolly Day to raise funds for Dolly Parton's Imagination Library.
Funds raised through Dolly Day will help expand access to Dolly Parton's Imagination Library for local families, ensuring more children across the Tamworth region can enjoy the benefits of having books in the home from an early age.
The day honours Dolly's legacy and supports the local program delivering free, age-appropriate books to children each month, helping foster a lifelong love of reading and learning.
Tamworth Regional Council Program Ambassador Lisa Rennie said the program has run because of the generosity of local sponsors and Council since 2019. The cost per child is $108 per year.
"The program is and always has been funded by community members who want to make a difference and be a part of sharing the opportunity to read and learn with our newest citizens.
"Dolly Parton had this incredible vision but didn't fund the program in Australia. It's our responsibility to see it continue for the more than 3,400 children in our community currently enjoying the program and for future kids too.
"We couldn't do it without these fundraising days and the support of sponsors like Council, McDonald's and Wests Entertainment Group to name a few."
Council also announced a new Country Music Ambassador for the program today, with Golden Guitar Winner and local mum Aleyce Simmonds turning the pages to find another chapter to explore in her career.
"Spending time with our precious little ones and stories is something I'm truly passionate about.
"As a songwriter, storyteller and mum, these special moments mean so much, and I'm so proud to play a part in keeping Dolly's legacy alive in our community" Ms Simmonds said.
Council thanked outgoing Country Music Ambassador Ashleigh Dallas for her energetic and heartfelt support of the program.
"We are so lucky to have two local country music stars generously sharing their time and talents with us. Thank you Ashleigh, and welcome Aleyce – I think Dolly would be proud of you both," Ms Rennie said.
Kay Delahunt, Learning Communities Manager with the Central North Regional Library said the program was making a meaningful difference to childhood literacy outcomes in the region.
"Reading is one of the most important foundations for a child's education and development.
"The Imagination Library and Baby Book Time at local libraries help connect children to the joy of books before they even start school."
Educators across the participating centres will use the day to celebrate storytelling, imagination and the importance of early literacy, while encouraging donations that will help keep books flowing into the hands of local children.
Community members are encouraged to support the fundraising effort through donations, taking part in centre activities, or simply dressing up or bedazzling their desk to help spread the word.
Together, Tamworth's families, educators and businesses can help ensure every child has the opportunity to open a book, spark their imagination and begin a lifelong journey of learning.
