The American Dream Starts @ your library
2014 American Dream Libraries Announced
The American Library Association’s (ALA) Office for Literacy and Outreach Services announces the selection of 22 libraries in 15 states to receive funding through the American Dream Starts @ your library grant initiative, generously supported by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation.
Each of the 22 libraries will receive a one-time grant up to $15,000 to add or expand literacy services for the adult English language learners in their communities. This funding will help libraries build their print and digital ESL (English as a second language) collections, increase computer access and provide GED and literacy instruction courses for English language learners.
The selected fourth-round American Dream libraries join a cohort of 144 previously-funded programs in Dollar General communities. These American Dream libraries build easily replicable programs, develop coalition-building strategies and provide annotated lists of proven resources for libraries across the country, serving adult English language learners and enhancing public awareness of library services for new Americans.
About The American Dream Starts @ your library
For more than a century, public libraries have been a cornerstone of the American Dream, providing equal access to information of all kinds. In fact, libraries are among the first American institutions immigrants turn to for help in learning how to read, write, and speak English.
Since January 2007, the American Library Association (ALA) has funded 100 libraries in 28 states. Each library received a onetime grant of $5,000 to add or improve literacy services to adult English language learners and their families.
The 100 American Dream libraries expanded ESL collections, taught classes, hosted conversation circles, trained tutors, increased computer access, build community partnerships, and raised the library’s visibility.
This initiative is generously funded by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation
- Dollar General Literacy Foundation
- ALA Office for Literacy and Outreach Services
- US Office of Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Citizenship Resource Center
This initiative is made possible by: