Scottish council announces annual Dolly Parton day

Renfrewshire Council will celebrate a musical icon and literacy advocate after formally declaring a “Dolly Day” should be marked on an annual basis.

Provost Lorraine Cameron put forward a motion at last week’s full council meeting paying tribute to Dolly Parton following her 80th birthday in January.

It recognises the impact the “Queen of Country” has had beyond music as the founder of her Imagination Library – a world-renowned book gifting programme.

The local authority offers children aged two to five years old a free, high-quality, age-appropriate book each month through the initiative.

Provost Cameron, an SNP representative for Paisley Southwest, said at Thursday’s meeting: “It gives me enormous pleasure to speak in support of this motion to declare an annual ‘Dolly Day’ in recognition of the 80th birthday of Dolly Parton.

“Not just her birthday but more importantly in celebration of the extraordinary impact that her Imagination Library has had in our pre-five settings here in Renfrewshire.

“Now Dolly Parton may be a global superstar, a bigger superstar than any of us, a singer-songwriter, philanthropist and she’s of course a cultural icon.

“But through that Imagination Library of hers she’s done something really beautiful and simple and very profoundly powerful which is putting books in the hand of her children.”

The motion, which received unanimous backing across the chamber at Renfrewshire House, resolved to use Dolly Day as an opportunity to celebrate reading, imagination and learning as well as promote the benefits of the Imagination Library to families in the area.

It encouraged schools, early years settings, libraries and community organisations to participate in age-appropriate celebrations and activities which highlight the importance of books, storytelling and imagination.

It also reaffirmed the council’s support for initiatives that improve early years outcomes and help make sure every child in Renfrewshire has the best possible start in life.

Councillor Jim Paterson, an SNP representative for Renfrew South and Gallowhill who seconded the motion, added: “For me, Dolly Day is not just about celebrating her 80th birthday, although that’s an extremely important milestone for her personally.

“It’s also about highlighting what I think is a model of leadership that she’s demonstrated that is rooted in community and opportunity and for giving practical help to those most vulnerable.”