ALTAFF and Nordstrom to Award 20 Matching Books for Babies Grants
The Association of Library Trustees, Advocates, Friends and Foundations (ALTAFF)-a division of the American Library Association (ALA)-in partnership with Nordstrom, will award 20 grants of $500 each. These grants match $1,075 raised by selected Friends of the Library groups, women’s groups, libraries and other non-profit organizations to purchase Books for Babies kits from ALTAFF.
Books for Babies is a national literacy program that informs parents of newborns as to the important role they play in their child’s development. Parents receive a Books for Babies kit that contains a board book for baby, baby’s first library card and brochures with reading tips and early literacy information from nationally-recognized educational organizations. Kits are available in both English and Spanish with an optional bib.
By reading to their babies and by becoming regular library users themselves, parents help their babies develop language skills and start them on the path to success in reading and learning.
Organizations such as Friends of the Library groups, Women’s Clubs, and Junior Leagues purchase Books for Babies packets. Groups often supplement the packets with information about local resources, including library locations and contact information as well as details about lapsit and preschool storyhours.
The deadline to apply is September 15, 2010. Winners will be notified by October 1 and orders must be placed by November 1. Any type of non-profit organization with a current Books for Babies program, or interest in starting one, is encouraged to apply. Additional information and the application form are available at www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/altaff/products_services/booksforbabies.