License for Literacy: Antonio Introduces License Plate to Benefit Dolly Parton's Imagination Library

Today, Senate Democratic Leader Nickie J. Antonio (D-Lakewood) provided sponsor testimony on Senate Bill 290, which would create the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library license plate.

“Ensuring that young children in Ohio can read and write is integral for providing a path to success,” said Antonio. "Dolly Parton has always been a fierce advocate for children and worked to bring kids in Ohio free books through the Imagination Library program. Purchasing this license plate creates an opportunity for Ohioans to demonstrate support for the Imagination Library. These unique license plates will, in turn, support the program.”

Residents of Ohio will have the opportunity to buy a special license plate with Dolly Parton and an Imagination Library logo for $25, with the proceeds benefiting Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Ohio. The funds will be used to cover operational expenses, such as book distribution. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has provided one free book a month to Ohio kids aged 0-5 since 2019.

A study conducted by the Cincinnati Children's Hospital found that kids who participated in Dolly Parton's Imagination Library saw a 15.4% increase in Kindergarten Readiness Assessment in just three years from 42.9% to 58.3%. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Ohio, brought by First Lady Fran DeWine, was a primary focus in Governor DeWine’s State of the State Address given this year.

Senate Bill 290 now awaits further hearings in the Senate Transportation Committee.