It's been a week since "Queen of Country" singing icon Dolly Parton died, and the memorials for her only continue to grow, especially for the singer's Imagination Library program.
Parton started the program in 1995, inspired by her father's inability to read and write, and as of March 12, 2025, the Imagination Library of Ohio has mailed over 20 million books to children in the state since the program's establishment in August 2019. Since 2025, Hamilton County alone has received over 1.6 million library books from Parton's program.
To honor Parton's initiative, Cincinnati-based Busken Bakery is selling hot pink cookies, adorned with Parton's likeness, with all proceeds benefiting the Imagination Library.
"Every once in a while, an opportunity comes
along where we can use what we do best to do something bigger than just sell cookies," Dan Busken, president of Busken Bakery, said. "Dolly Parton has brought so much joy to people, and we thought this was a fun way for our customers to join us in giving some of that joy back."
Busken added that the bakery is proud to donate all the proceeds from every Dolly cookie and "help put books into the hands of kids."
How to get Busken's Dolly Parton-themed cookies
Patrons can get Dolly Parton-themed cookies at all Busken locations. The cookies are also available for shipping on the bakery's website (under "Ship Favorites"). For guaranteed cookie availability, be sure to call your closest Busken location.
Here's a look at Busken's locations:
- Hyde Park: 2675 Madison Road, 513-871-5330.
- Springdale: 370 W. Kemper Road, 513-671-8454.
- Eastgate: 956 Old State Route 74, 513-753-9540.
- Highland Heights: 2895 Alexandria Pike, 859-781-5090.
How long will the Dolly-themed cookies be sold?
If you haven't gotten your hands on the specialty Dolly Parton cookies, don't fret. Busken plans to keep selling them as long as there's a demand.
According to Busken, the cookies will be available in stores and online through the end of the week, but that could be extended. He also told The Enquirer the bakery has discussed selling more Parton-themed cookies on Sept. 25 (9-25) to honor the legendary singer's iconic song "9 to 5."
The cookies will also showcase a different Dolly design.
Busken has raised thousands for Dolly's Imagination Library
Since the bakery started selling the Dolly-themed cookies on Friday, Aug. 28, they've sold over 5,700 and plan to donate over $8,000 to Parton's Imagination Library, per Busken.
How to sign up for Dolly Parton's Imagination Library
To sign up for Parton's Imagination Library, visit imaginationlibrary.com and input the required information to check availability.
Once all the information has been completed, a child's first book will arrive 8-10 weeks after signing up. Then, a monthly book will be delivered until the child's fifth birthday.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Busken sells Dolly Parton cookies. Where to buy 9 to 5 dozen of 'em
