Literacy Grants

[From Philanthropy News Digest]

Better World Books, an online bookseller that collects and sells books to fund literacy initiatives worldwide, has announced the launch of the LEAP Grants (Literacy and Education in Action Program) for Libraries. LEAP provides funding for specific projects beyond the company's regular revenue contributions to Better World nonprofit partners.

Applicants are invited to propose a compelling literacy project in their community. Projects should address the literacy needs of underserved populations in their community. The program defines literacy needs broadly as "identifying, understanding, interpreting, creating, communicating, and computing information to live a more fulfilling and productive life." Successful applicants will use their funds to advance a compelling literacy project that Better World Books can follow, document, and share with its readers across the world. Projects that address the literacy needs of underserved populations in their community and involve partnerships with local government agencies are highly encouraged.

Interested libraries are invited to first submit a short two-page project overview. Those with the best proposals will be selected for a half-hour conversation with Better World Books during which they will pitch their idea. After reviewing all the pitches, Better World Books will select the winners whose projects are judged the most viable and ready to be implemented. Selected libraries will then be asked to complete a more detailed project plan. After project plans are complete, the grants will be awarded.

A total of $75,000 is available in this round of grants. Grants will range from $5,000 to $25,000.

Visit the Better World Books Web site for complete program information and application procedures.

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP