The Ann Arbor District Library (AADL) is inviting the community to celebrate one of America’s most beloved entertainers with a day devoted to music, movies, crafts and the enduring spirit of Dolly Parton.
Dolly Day will take place Friday, September 25, at the Downtown Ann Arbor District Library. The free, all-ages celebration will feature classic films, hands-on activities, music, photo opportunities and plenty of pink and sparkle in honor of the country music icon whose influence stretches far beyond the stage.
Although Dolly Parton is widely recognized for founding the Imagination Library, which has provided millions of free books to young children around the world, AADL is not affiliated with the Imagination Library program. Instead, the event celebrates Dolly’s broader cultural legacy and her lifelong commitment to literacy, kindness, and creativity.
“Once the idea of a 9-25 day was in the ether, we leapt on the idea. We know our community is filled with Dolly fans and those who are becoming Dolly fans for the first time. We wanted to create the opportunity for the community to gather around a shared love of Dolly,” said librarian Erin Helmrich, who is helping organize the event.
Helmrich believes Dolly is a natural fit for a library celebration.
“Libraries are filled with music, words, movies, and books—all things celebrated and championed by Dolly Parton! She’s a beloved, multi-talented legend who has been part of the fabric of popular culture for decades. Dolly worked tirelessly with her Imagination Library to improve literacy and foster a love of reading in children and families. Dolly was the ultimate friend of libraries.”
Enjoy three Dolly-related films throughout the day:
- 11 a.m. – “9 to 5″
- 1:30 p.m. – “Straight Talk”
- 3 p.m. – “Steel Magnolias”
In addition to the movie screenings, guests can create Dolly-inspired crafts, contribute memories, favorite lyrics, or reflections on a community memory wall, listen to Dolly Parton’s music throughout the day, and pose for photos with a life-size Dolly cutout.
“We encourage attendees to dress to impress Dolly! There will be plenty of pink and sparkles with photo ops with a lifesize Dolly cut-out!” Helmrich said.
Organizers hope the celebration leaves attendees with more than just fun memories.
“A warm feeling of getting the chance to share their love of Dolly Parton and all that she stood for. Plus some tangible mementos to wear and share!” Helmrich said.
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More than six decades into her career, Dolly Parton continues to connect with audiences of every generation through her music, films, philanthropy and unmistakable optimism.
Helmrich believes that enduring appeal comes from Dolly’s ability to bring people together.
“Her music and movies are beloved and now more popular than ever! People are looking for positive things in the world, and Dolly spanned musical and movie genres, challenged boundaries set for women, and appealed across regional and ideological lines with the blinding light of her warmth, kindness and empathy.”
Admission to Dolly Day is free, and all ages are welcome.
Donna Marie Iadipaolo is a writer, journalist, and State of Michigan certified teacher, since 1990. She has written for national publications like The Village Voice, Ear Magazine of New Music, Insurance & Technology, and TheStreet.
She is now writing locally for many publications, including Current Magazine, Ann Arbor Family, and the Ann Arbor Independent. Her undergraduate degree is from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, where she graduated with an honors bachelor’s degree and three teacher certificate majors: mathematics, social sciences, English. She also earned three graduate degrees in Master of Science, Master of Arts, and Education Specialist Degree.
