ALTAFF and Nordstrom to Award 20 Matching Books for Babies Grants

In partnership with Nordstrom, the Association of Library Trustees, Advocates, Friends and Foundations (ALTAFF), a division of the American Library Association (ALA), will award 20 grants for $500 each to match $1,075 raised by selected Friends of the Library groups, women’s groups, libraries and other nonprofit organizations for purchasing Books for Babies kits from ALTAFF.

Books for Babies is a national literacy program that acquaints parents of newborns with the important role they play in the development of their children. Parents are presented with a Books for Babies kit containing a board book for baby, baby’s first library card and a variety of brochures with reading tips and early literacy information from nationally recognized educational organizations. Organizations such as Friends of the Library groups, junior leagues and other nonprofits purchase Books for Babies kits. Groups often supplement the kits with information about local resources, including library locations and contact information, as well as details about lapsit and preschool story hours.

In 2008 and 2009, nearly 10,000 Books for Babies kits were distributed to newborns and their parents through ALTAFF’s partnership with Nordstrom, one of the nation’s leading fashion specialty retailers, with 187 U.S. stores located in 28 states. The program was so successful that Nordstrom has donated another $10,000 to continue the matching grants for 2010.

Twenty matching grants will be awarded. The deadline for applications is Sept. 15, 2010. Winners will be notified by Oct. 1, and orders must be placed by Nov. 1. Any type of nonprofit organization with a current program or interest in starting a Books for Babies program is encouraged to apply. Additional information and the application form can be found at www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/altaff/products_services/booksforbabies.
(Jillian Kalonick, Association of Library Trustees, Advocates, Friends and Foundation - ALTAFF)