It's officially Dolly Parton Day, with parades, pink lights and book drives

Sept. 25 marks Dolly Parton Day, with communities worldwide holding parades, pink-themed events, and book drives to honor the singer’s legacy. The date is timed as a nod to Parton’s hit “9 to 5.” Parton, who died of cancer last month at age 80, built a career spanning music, acting, philanthropy and entrepreneurship, and her longtime literacy effort is central to the celebrations. In the U.S., officials in multiple states and cities are designating the day annually. Nashville will use pink lights and posters and distribute stickers, buttons and bookmarks, while Southwest Airlines plans a Parton-inspired karaoke for travelers and employees. Other events include a parade in New Orleans led by Krewe of Dolly and a public event in San Francisco called “Dolly Day.” Parton’s Imagination Library aims to send more than a million books monthly to children across several countries.