Montgomery County residents are invited to participate in a unique community event that combines the celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day with the birthday of country music legend Dolly Parton. On January 19, 2024, at 2 p.m., the Imagination Library of Montgomery County (ILMC) will host a screening of the film “9 to 5” at the Trahern Theater located on the Austin Peay State University campus. The event aims to entertain while promoting early childhood literacy.
The celebration recognizes both the significance of civil rights and Parton’s contributions to literacy through her Imagination Library program. Activities will begin at 1:30 p.m., allowing children and their parents to engage in creative tasks, such as coloring and writing birthday cards for Parton, along with enjoying cupcakes. The screening of “9 to 5,” which honors Parton’s 80th birthday, is appropriate for children aged eight and older. Attendees will also have access to a reading corner featuring some of ILMC’s favorite books.
This event goes beyond mere entertainment; it embodies the mission of the Imagination Library to ensure that every child has access to quality literature. Participants are encouraged to make a donation of $15.60, which can provide a year’s worth of books for one local child. According to Montgomery County’s website, this initiative aims to eliminate barriers to literacy based on socioeconomic status, allowing all children to explore the world through books.
Since its inception, the Imagination Library has focused on delivering high-quality books at no cost to families with children from birth to age five. This effort is crucial in fostering a love for reading and building home libraries that support educational development. The Martin Luther King Jr. Day event serves as an extension of this mission, inviting residents to reflect on social issues while actively participating in promoting childhood literacy in the community.
Free parking will be available for attendees, making it easier for families to join in the festivities. The combination of celebration and community engagement underscores the importance of both Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy and Dolly Parton’s commitment to education, making this event a meaningful occasion for all involved.
