Grants for Books

Written By Tina Brigham

In an era where digital distractions are omnipresent, the importance of physical books in fostering literacy and a love for reading cannot be overstated. For many schools and communities, however, building a robust library can be a financial challenge. Thankfully, numerous foundations have stepped up to bridge this gap, offering grants and book donations to ensure that every child has access to the magical world of literature.

This comprehensive guide highlights 14 remarkable foundations dedicated to putting books in the hands of young readers. Whether you're an educator, librarian, or community leader, these organizations could be the key to unlocking a treasure trove of literary resources for the children you serve.

1. The Laura Bush Foundation for America's Libraries

Former First Lady Laura Bush, a former teacher and librarian herself, established this foundation to support America's school libraries. Their grants have helped numerous schools refresh their collections with current and engaging titles.

2. First Book

  • Offering: New books and educational resources at reduced costs or through grants

  • Target: Schools and programs serving children in need

  • Website: https://firstbook.org

First Book's innovative model combines grants with a marketplace offering deeply discounted books and supplies. They've distributed millions of books, transforming the lives of children in underserved communities.

3. The Lisa Libraries

Founded in memory of children's book editor Lisa Novak, this foundation focuses on getting books directly into the hands of children who might not otherwise have access to them.

4. The Dollar General Literacy Foundation

  • Grants for: Literacy programs, including book purchases

  • Scope: Adult, family, and youth literacy initiatives

  • Website: https://www.dgliteracy.org

This foundation's comprehensive approach addresses literacy needs across all age groups, making it a valuable resource for diverse community programs.

5. The Snapdragon Book Foundation

Founded by a former school librarian, Snapdragon understands the critical role that well-stocked libraries play in a child's education.

6. The Children's Book Project

This San Francisco-based nonprofit has distributed over 3 million books since 1992, focusing on getting books into the homes of children who need them most.

7. The Book Love Foundation

Founded by educator Penny Kittle, this foundation specifically targets older students, recognizing the importance of maintaining reading engagement through adolescence.

8. The Lois Lenski Covey Foundation

Named after the renowned children's author and illustrator, this foundation carries on Lenski's legacy of making quality literature accessible to all children.

9. The Pilcrow Foundation

By focusing on rural libraries, Pilcrow ensures that children in less populated areas have access to the same quality of books as their urban counterparts.

10. The P. Buckley Moss Foundation for Children's Education

  • Grants for: Art-related education programs, including book purchases

  • Emphasis: Integrating arts into educational curricula

  • Website: https://mossfoundation.org

This unique foundation recognizes the power of combining visual arts with literature to enhance learning experiences.

11. The Libri Foundation

Libri's matching grant program encourages community involvement in supporting local libraries.

12. Reading Is Fundamental (RIF)

  • Offering: Books, literacy resources, and reading programs

  • Reach: Nationwide, focusing on underserved children

  • Website: https://www.rif.org

As America's largest nonprofit children's literacy organization, RIF has been transforming lives through books for over 50 years.

13. Better World Books Literacy Grants

This socially conscious online bookseller uses its profits to fund literacy initiatives worldwide.

14. Target Field Trip Grants

While not specifically a book donation program, these grants can significantly enrich students' literary experiences through real-world connections.

Conclusion

These foundations represent a collective effort to ensure that every child, regardless of their socioeconomic background, has access to the transformative power of books. By providing grants, donations, and resources, they're not just filling shelves – they're opening doors to new worlds, fostering imagination, and laying the groundwork for lifelong learning.

If you're an educator, librarian, or community leader looking to enhance your literary resources, consider reaching out to these organizations. Remember that each foundation has specific criteria and application processes, so be sure to review their websites for detailed information.

Let's work together to put books in the hands of children who need them most. After all, a well-read child today is a well-prepared adult tomorrow.

Note: Grant availability and program details may change. Always check the official websites for the most up-to-date information.

Tina Brigham

Tina Brigham is a writer, a teacher, and a librarian.

http://askaschoollibrarian.com
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