91´«Ã½

CHICAGO – The Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), a division of the 91´«Ã½ (91´«Ã½), announces ; an exciting new grant opportunity for libraries to promote exploration and discovery for children ages 6 to 14. This grant will support librarians who are already implementing innovative maker-spaces as well as those who can use this funding to spark new programs.

Public libraries are eligible to apply and should submit applications by the Sept. 25, 2015 deadline. The 77 grants, each in the amount of $7,500 will be awarded in October 2015. This grant has been made possible through a generous donation of $800,000 to ALSC by Disney.

As noted by ALSC president, Andrew Medlar, “Children are naturally curious and the act of creating is vital to their development, so ALSC is particularly grateful to Disney and especially excited to offer this incredible opportunity to support our members’ work in public libraries, where families can engage their creativity unlike anyplace else in the community.”

These grants may be used to develop and implement new creativity programming and/or to expand existing programs to reach even more children. Through the grant and a culminating report of best practices, ALSC is thrilled to announce this opportunity to further support the informal learning that takes place in libraries across the nation.

About ALSC

is the world's largest organization dedicated to the support and enhancement of library service to children. ALSC's network includes more than 4,000 children's and youth librarians, children's literature experts, publishers, education and library school faculty members, and other adults dedicated to creating a better future for children through libraries.

About The Walt Disney Company

, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international entertainment and media enterprise with five business segments: media networks, parks and resorts, studio entertainment, consumer products and interactive media. Being a good corporate citizen is a time-honored Disney tradition. Through contributions, collaborations with local organizations, in-kind gifts and volunteering, Disney helps to brighten the lives of kids and families in need and strengthen communities around the world. For more information visit, or .

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