Could your library use a few thousand dollars to support adult book discussion programs?

We’ve heard for a long time that adult book discussion programs are great for encouraging readers to come to the library. Currently, libraries in every state but Nebraska and Deleware are set to receive funds to support The Big Read library book discussions. The Big Read is an initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services and in cooperation with Arts Midwest. Big Read grants, ranging from $2,500 – $20,000, are available to revitalize the role of literature in American culture. Organizations selected to participate in The Big Read will receive a grant, financial support to attend a national orientation meeting, educational and promotional materials for broad distribution, Organizer’s Guide for developing and managing Big Read activities, inclusion of your organization and activities on The Big Read Web site, and the prestige of participating in a highly visible national initiative. Approximately 200 organizations of varying sizes across the country will be selected in this cycle. Go to www.NEABigRead.org to download the Guidelines and Application. Questions? Call Arts Midwest at 612.341.0755 or e-mail TheBigRead@artsmidwest.org Deadlines Intent to apply deadline (strongly encouraged): June 29, 2007 Application deadline: July 31, 2007 Project activity: January–June 2008 Please comment below to let us know if you intend to apply (or if you don’t, please let us know why). Thanks, Mary Jo Ryan