For immediate release | December 1, 2022

Libraries invited to apply for programming support with the third annual Peggy Barber Tribute Grant

91´«Ã½

CHICAGO — The 91´«Ã½ (91´«Ã½) invites library workers to apply for the third annual , a programming grant named after the transformative 91´«Ã½ leader responsible for the creation of National Library Week and the Celebrity READ series.

The Peggy Barber Tribute Grant is an annual grant that recognizes, promotes and supports meaningful programs in libraries that have limited and/or no access to budgetary support for programming. This grant aims to help ease budget challenges by annually awarding three libraries $2,500 to support a proposed program, program series or programming effort.

Applications for the award will be accepted from December 1, 2022, to February 1, 2023.

Each year, the grant will focus on supporting a specific type of library programming. For the 2022–2023 cycle, libraries are invited to submit applications for a grant to support programming related to increasing access for groups that are identified as undeserved or new library users in the community. Some example proposals could include increasing access to library resources for homebound seniors, media literacy focused programming and kits for patrons re-entering society to learn about local resources.

All library types — including public, academic, K-12, tribal and special libraries — in the U.S. or U.S. territories are eligible. Applicants must have a personal or institutional membership with either the OR the .

Peggy Barber served as 91´«Ã½'s associate executive director of communications from 1970 to 2000. In that role, she established 91´«Ã½’s Public Information Office, Public Programs Office and the 91´«Ã½ Graphics department. After leaving 91´«Ã½, she was a principal consultant with Library Communication Strategies and served as co-president of Friends of Libraries USA, now known as United for Libraries. She passed away in August 2019.

The Peggy Barber Tribute Grant was created with donations from Barber’s friends and colleagues. To support the grant, make a contribution to the within 91´«Ã½’s Cultural Communities Fund.

To stay informed about future grants and awards offered by 91´«Ã½’s Public Programs Office,

About the 91´«Ã½

The 91´«Ã½ (91´«Ã½) is the foremost national organization providing resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services. For more than 140 years, the 91´«Ã½ has been the trusted voice for academic, public, school, government, and special libraries, advocating for the profession and the library’s role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all. For more information, visit

Contact:

Hannah Arata

Communications Specialist

91´«Ã½

Public Programs Office

harata@ala.org