After budget cuts, First Lady Maureen Braun launches fundraiser for Dolly Parton's Imagination Library
As promised earlier this year, Indiana First Lady Maureen Braun on April 29 launched a fundraising initiative to maintain Dolly Parton's Imagination Library in the Hoosier State, after state leaders cut its funding. The Imagination Library distributes free books to children around the country, including in Indiana.
The First Lady plans to work with philanthropic organizations and state leaders to both fundraise and grow the literacy program in Indiana in the coming years, according to a news release.
"Having books in the home helps children do better in school and will benefit them throughout their lives," Braun said in video launching the fundraising drive.
But Gov. Mike Braun and state lawmakers drew heavy criticism in February when the House passed its version of the state budget that cut funding for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. In 2023, the Indiana General Assembly approved $6 million over two years for the Imagination Library to send books to young Hoosiers.
Shortly after the blowback, the governor announced the First Lady would step in and lead a public-private partnership to raise funds for the Imagination Library in Indiana.
For more information about the First Lady's fundraising initiative, or to donate, visit the Indiana State Library Foundation's website.
Contact IndyStar state government and politics reporter Brittany Carloni at brittany.carloni@indystar.com. Follow her on Twitter/X @CarloniBrittany.
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