Big Read grants, the NEA, and opportunities for local book-lovers

The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) plans on awarding nearly $1,600,000 in grant monies to libraries, municipalities, and various art and education organizations to host Big Read events. Wow. According to an NEA press release, "In just two years, the Big Read has grown from 10 communities to include nearly 200 towns and cities nationwide. Although each of these communities celebrates its Big Read program in its own way, one theme we consistently hear back is that the Big Read is not just bringing citizens back to the joy of reading, but also reinvigorating the very idea of community," said NEA Chairman Dana Gioia. "I am delighted to announce the newest round of Big Read communities in this program, which is about so much more than reading."

Grants will be from $2,500 to $20,000 for community-based programs, printed and audio materials, and hosting local events. This is a perfect way to stir up book-excitement in your community, focus attention on local libraries, and—in my opinion—improve the quality of life now and in the future by encouraging literacy rather than computer-game-induced obesity. Talk to your librarians, members of Friends of the Library, community leaders, and, of course, other writers, about applying for grant monies. Visit the NEA’s Big Read web site at http://www.neabigread.org/ ; or contact Paulette Beete at the NEA directly by phone at 202-682-5601 or via email at beetep@arts.gov