Grants and Fundraising

The 2026 Maureen Hayes Author/Illustrator Award

Have you always wanted to host an author or illustrator at your library but didn’t have the budget?  Then consider applying for the for the 2026 Maureen Hayes Author/Illustrator Award! Author or Illustrator visits provide the opportunity for your library to engage children by bringing nationally recognized authors and illustrators into your community. 

Grants and Fundraising

A Little Light Goes a Long Way

If you’re reading this, I probably don’t need to tell you that librarians are some of the most creative, community-focused problem solvers out there. Every day, we dream up new ways to reach kids and families—often while working with shoestring budgets, limited staff time, and an endless list of parameters. Sometimes, it’s hard to reach everyone, and when it comes to those who need library services most, help is on the way! We’re so excited to announce that the ALSC Programs and Services Recognition Committee is now accepting applications for the 2026 ALSC/Candlewick “Light the Way” Grant!

Grants and Fundraising

Illuminate Your Library’s Future with the Light the Way Grant!

Let’s be honest—we librarians are masters at making magic happen with minimal resources. We can transform a cardboard box into a rocket ship and turn pipe cleaners into STEAM learning opportunities. But what if I told you there’s $3,000 waiting to help you launch that dream project you’ve been sketching out on Post-it notes?

Grants and Fundraising

Applications open for the Baker & Taylor Summer Reading Grant

It seems early to be thinking about Summer Reading 2025, but, if you’ve been in the library world a while, you realize that it’s actually just a hop, skip and a jump away.  As you think about it and make plans, you may want to consider applying for the Baker & Taylor Summer Reading Grant to help supplement or fund your summer enrichment activities. 

Awards & Scholarships

Apply Now for Baker & Taylor Summer Reading Program Grant

It may seem like summer reading just ended, but many of us are already planning what our programs will look like for next year. As you envision Summer Reading 2021, would an extra $3,000 help your program to be more innovative? ALSC and the Programs and Services Recognition Committee are now accepting online applications for the ALSC/Baker & Taylor Summer Reading Grant. This $3,000 grant is designed to encourage reading programs for children in public libraries, while recognizing ALSC members for outstanding program development. Due to COVID-19, the committee will consider proposals for virtual programming, as well as in-person programs which can take into account public health and safety measures Each application will be judged on the following: The plan and outline submitted for a theme-based summer reading program in a public library Program ideas that are open to all children (birth – 14 years) The committee encourages innovative proposals involving…