Gulf Shores, Ala. — (GSN) — Following the recent passing of country music icon Dolly Parton, Alabamians across the state are reflecting on her extraordinary legacy of generosity, music, and lifelong dedication to early childhood literacy. Known for her deep Southern roots, her love for her Gulf Coast and Alabama fans, and her enduring cultural impact, Parton’s influence extends far beyond her legendary songs. Today, Alabama drivers have a unique opportunity to honor her memory and support young readers through the official Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library specialty license plate.

The distinctive plate design, spearheaded by the Dollywood Foundation, is currently available for pre-commitment through the Alabama Department of Revenue’s online MyDMV portal.

• Direct Local Funding: Proceeds from the $50 specialty tag stay in the specific county where the vehicle is registered, directly funding local book deliveries.
• Free Books for Children: Every plate purchased covers the cost of mailing a free, high-quality, age-appropriate book each month to enrolled children from birth until their fifth birthday.
• High Local Impact: In Baldwin County, a single license plate provides enough proceeds to fund monthly book deliveries for three children for an entire year.

Parton’s connection to Alabama has long been forged through decades of live performances, artistic partnerships, and a shared commitment to uplifting local communities. Since its Alabama debut in 2004, the Imagination Library has expanded into all 67 counties, delivering over 5.4 million books to young Alabamians. Currently, over 105,000 children across the state receive books through the program every month. Following her passing, state leaders and community members noted that Parton's vision will continue to foster a love for reading across Alabama for generations to come.

Public libraries across South Baldwin County play a crucial frontline role in fostering early childhood literacy and driving enrollment in the Imagination Library. Community libraries—including those in Bay Minette, Foley, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach—work directly with program partners to ensure every family has access to early learning resources.

• Early Literacy Programs: South Baldwin libraries organize interactive storytimes, early reading clubs, and hands-on family events designed to build core literacy skills prior to kindergarten.
• Universal Access: By coordinating with countywide partners, local libraries ensure that Imagination Library registration is open to all children ages 0–5 regardless of household income.
• Community Partnerships: Through local dollar matches and outreach programs, South Baldwin libraries connect parents, educators, and volunteers to build a strong foundation for lifelong learning throughout the region.

When visiting the Foley Satellite Office (located at 201 East Section Avenue), South Baldwin residents can easily reserve or redeem their pre-commitment for the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library specialty tag. To complete your transaction, bring a valid driver's license or state-issued ID, proof of active Alabama vehicle insurance, and your current vehicle registration. If you pre-committed online through the Alabama Department of Revenue’s MyDMV portal, bring a copy of your pre-commitment receipt or redemption voucher email. The licensing clerk will verify your paperwork, collect the $50 specialty plate fee along with standard registration costs, and process your tag so you can support early literacy across Alabama.