Following the recent passing of country music icon and philanthropist Dolly Parton, Rep. Ben Waxman (D-Philadelphia), plans to introduce legislation to recognize Sept. 25 (9/25) as “Dolly Parton Day” in Pennsylvania.
The date was selected—September 25 (9/25)—as a deliberate nod to Parton’s famous 1980 anthem and hit movie, “9 to 5.”
The tribute aims to celebrate not only Parton’s decades of musical achievements, including dozens of country hits and awards, but also her deep impact as a humanitarian.
Among her most cherished initiatives in Pennsylvania was the Imagination Library, a book gifting program she founded in 1995. Through local partnerships across the state, the program has mailed millions of free, high-quality books to young children in Pennsylvania from birth until they enter kindergarten, fostering early childhood literacy across both rural and urban communities.
“Dolly Parton represented the very best of American creativity, generosity, and public spirit,” lawmakers noted in sponsorship memos supporting the resolution. “Her commitment to children’s literacy transformed lives across Pennsylvania, giving hundreds of thousands of young children the tool of reading.”
The choice of September 25 offers a lighthearted yet meaningful date for Pennsylvanians to honor her memory. Communities and public institutions across the state, including local libraries, schools, and civic organizations, are already preparing special events, reading marathons, and musical tributes timed to the date.
If passed, the resolution will urge residents statewide to spend the day engaging in acts of literacy promotion, charitable work, and celebrating the enduring music and spirit of the beloved cultural icon.
