December 2, 2011

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

IMLS Press Contacts
202-653-4632
Kevin O'Connell, koconnell@imls.gov
Mamie Bittner, mbittner@imls.gov

IMLS Commits Up to $2 Million to Advance Goals of the Campaign for Grade Level Reading

Two Web Conferences Added to Discuss the New Focus

Washington, DC—In recognition of the role that museums and libraries play in early learning, the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) today announced its intention to provide up to $2 million of National Leadership Grant (NLG) funds over two years for library-museum collaborations in support of community efforts to further the goals the Campaign for Grade Level Reading , including school readiness, summer reading loss, and chronic school absence. (This is subject to funding availability and agency discretion.) The Library Museum Collaboration Category of the NLG program will focus on museums and libraries promoting early learning (learners from ages 0-8 and their parents and caregivers). Libraries and museums are encouraged to partner with each other and/or with applicable community organizations to address at least one of the challenges identified by the Campaign for Grade Level Reading.

IMLS is providing two Web conferences for prospective NLG applicants who want to learn more about this opportunity, ask questions, and listen to the questions and comments of other participants:

Friday, December 9, 2011, at 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM. Eastern Time
A few minutes before the start time, go to: https://imls.megameeting.com/?page=guest&conid=NLG_SPARKS. You will be asked to enter your name and your e-mail address. For the audio connection, dial 1-888-272-8702 on your phone, and when prompted, enter the code 7475003#.

Thursday, January 5, 2012, at 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM. Eastern Time
A few minutes before the start time, go to: https://imls.megameeting.com/?page=guest&conid=NLG_SPARKS. You will be asked to enter your name and your e-mail address. For the audio connection, dial 1-888-272-8702 on your phone, and when prompted, enter the code 2053175#.

About the Institute of Museum and Library Services

The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's 123,000 libraries and 17,500 museums. The Institute's mission is to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas. The Institute works at the national level and in coordination with state and local organizations to sustain heritage, culture, and knowledge; enhance learning and innovation; and support professional development. To learn more about the Institute, please visit www.imls.gov.

Programs
National Leadership Grants for Libraries