Attendees at the sold-out “Dolly Forever” fundraiser on April 26 at the Olive Free Library. Photo courtesy of Lucy Rodgers Cohen.

A sold-out crowd at the Olive Free Library’s “Dolly Forever” fundraiser on April 26 received a special surprise: a personal video message from Dolly Parton herself.

The country music icon thanked attendees for supporting her Imagination Library, a program that mails free books to children under five. Parton also gave a shoutout to Shandaken-based author Holly George-Warren, co-author of “Behind the Seams: My Life in Rhinestones,” who participated in the event.

The fundraiser marked the launch of the library’s 2025 Annual Appeal. A community member has pledged to match donations made in May and June up to $10,000.

“We’re thrilled to have Dolly’s support,” said Lucy Rodgers Cohen, event chair and treasurer of the Friends of the Olive Free Library. “Her work with the Imagination Library has inspired so many, and we’re proud to be part of that legacy.”

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