Leap Grants for Libraries

Better World Books' LEAP - Literacy and Education in Action Program is offering a wonderful grant opportunity for public libraries. 

Better World Books is bringing grant opportunities to libraries to significantly impact local literacy efforts. Successful applications will use funds to advance a compelling literacy project that Better World Books can follow, document and share with its readers across the world.

The needs and opportunities of the communities libraries serve vary widely and there are countless worthy projects to support. This grant process is patterned off of the California State Library's 'Pitch an Idea' program and is intended to solicit a wide range of applications that reflect this diversity.

$75,000 in funding is available; maximum grant amount is $25,000.

Simplified Process:
Interested libraries need only submit a short two page project overview and those with the best proposals will be selected for a 30 minute conversation where they will pitch their idea. After reviewing all of the pitches, Better World Books will select the winners whose projects are most viable and ready to go. Selected libraries will then be asked to complete a more detailed project plan in coordination with Better World Books. After project plans are complete, the grants will be awarded.

Selection Criteria:
 As you develop your Game Changing ideas, keep the following in mind:

•Projects should address the literacy needs of under served populations in their community; literacy needs are defined broadly: identifying, understanding, interpreting, creating, communicating, and computing information to live a more fulfilling and productive life

•Projects must be implemented between 5/16/11 – 12/31/11

•Libraries may pitch multiple projects or a single project totaling no more than $25,000 and no less that $5,000

•Libraries can present up to two Game Changing ideas, but only one idea per library will be chosen

•Each Game Changing idea must be fully supported by the Director and/or Library Administration

•Projects that involve partnerships with local government agencies are highly encouraged

•Projects that will have a measurable and long term impact on an under served population, and will continue to operate after grant funds have been utilized, will be looked upon favorably

Better World Books looks forward to reviewing applications that bring a fresh and inspired approach to challenging issues.

For more information about Better World Books' LEAP, click here.