From now until March 29, the Public Library Association (PLA) is accepting applications for eight Innovations in Literacy Scholarships to recognize original literacy programs of all types in public libraries. Grants in the amount of $1,000 will be awarded to eight winning applicants for registration and travel to the PLA 2014 Conference in Indianapolis, March 11-15. The Innovations in Literacy Scholarships are funded by a generous donation from the Cambria Estate Winery, which has a strong tradition of supporting literacy initiatives.
Candidates must submit an online application describing the public library’s achievement in creative literacy programming for the community, how the program increased the use of or improved awareness of the public library and the candidate’s role in developing or implementing the program. Programs in early literacy, adult literacy, digital literacy, transliteracy, information literacy, financial literacy, etc., will all be considered. Applicants may preview the application online.
The deadline to submit an application is 11:59 p.m. CST, March 29. Applications will be reviewed by the PLA 2014 Conference Committee and will be judged on the following: innovation and creativity; collaborative efforts of the staff and community in the planning and implementation process; measurements of success in the community based on usage, program attendance or greater community awareness; sustainability of the program; ease of replication; and quality and appropriateness of submitted materials (supporting documents may be included).