It's been nearly a month since Dolly Parton, the iconic "Queen of Country," died, and cities (and businesses) around the country are finding ways to honor her, especially when it comes to the singer's Imagination Library program.
Parton started the program in 1995, inspired by her father's inability to read and write. 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.
In honor of Parton, many states, including Ohio, have declared Sept. 25 as "Dolly Parton Day." The day is special as the date (9-2-5) sounds like Parton's popular song "9
to 5."
To coincide with Dolly Parton Day, Cincinnati-based Busken Bakery will once again sell hot pink cookies adorned with Parton's likeness, with all proceeds benefiting the Imagination Library. The bakery initially sold the cookies following Parton's passing.
"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, previously 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."
What is 9-2-5 Day? Cities honoring Dolly Parton
On Sept. 25, cities around the country will celebrate Parton, with many declaring it "Dolly Parton Day."
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine signed a proclamation Sept. 14, officially declaring 9-2-5 as Dolly Parton Day to "celebrate her life, legacy and generosity."
"Dolly Parton rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most beloved entertainers in the world and dedicated herself to literacy and children through her philanthropic work with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library," DeWine said in the release.
How to get Busken's Dolly Parton-themed cookies on 9-2-5
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.
According to Busken, the cookies will be available in stores and online while supplies last.
Busken has raised thousands for Dolly's Imagination Library
Since the bakery began selling the Dolly-themed cookies on Aug. 28, they've sold more than 12,000 and plan to donate over $19,000 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 selling Dolly Parton cookies for 9-2-5. How to get them
