To the editor:

With the passing of Dolly Parton, America has lost a beloved cultural icon. While her legacy lives on through timeless songs like "Jolene" and "Islands in the Stream," as well as classic films like Steel Magnolias and 9 to 5, her philanthropy may ultimately be her most powerful legacy — one that shares a meaningful connection with Bristol.

In 1995, Dolly launched the Imagination Library to honor her father, who never learned to read or write but successfully raised 12 children. In partnership with local organizations across the country, the program has delivered over 300 million free books to children aged five and under to foster a lifelong love of learning.

In Rhode Island, that mission began through a partnership with the Friends of the Rogers Free Library. Together, we have reached 60% of families in the Bristol/Warren area, distributing over 35,000 books to date. Thanks to the dedication of the RFL staff, this initiative has become one of the most successful in New England. In recognition of this achievement, the Government Employees Health Association (GEHA) recently awarded the Rogers Free Library a cash prize to help expand these efforts.

As one of her most famous songs reminds us, "I Will Always Love You." Dolly will always be loved here in Bristol, and the Friends of RFL remain fully committed to continuing her inspiring work for local children and families.

Steve Aveson
Bristol