Antonio Introduces Legislation to Recognize September 25th as Dolly Parton Day

Today, Senate Democratic Leader Nickie J. Antonio (D-Lakewood) introduced legislation to designate the 25th day of September as Dolly Parton Day in Ohio in honor of the late entertainer and philanthropist Dolly Parton. 

“Dolly Parton had an indelible impact on our state through her generosity, musical genius and literacy efforts through the Imagination Library program,” said Antonio. “She selflessly gave back to our younger generations through her passion for education and literacy, doing so much for young families in our state. No one is more deserving of a day where their generosity and contributions can be recognized by all Ohioans.”

While Governor DeWine issued a proclamation to declare September 25 as Dolly Parton Day, this legislation would make it law and ensure her contributions to our state are celebrated for years to come. 

Leader Antonio was the primary sponsor of Senate Bill 290 last General Assembly, which created the Dolly Parton Imagination Library license plate to support the program. Since April 3, 2025, more than 1,500 Ohioans have purchased the license plate. Ohio leads the nation in the number of children enrolled in the Imagination Library, with nearly 28 million books distributed so far to children across the state, which has been shown to improve kindergarten readiness in participants. 

Parents can enroll any child under the age of 5 to receive a free book through the mail every month at OhioImaginationLibrary.org.