National Endowment for the Arts: The Big Read

The Big Read is designed to restore reading to the center of American culture. The Big Read provides organizations with grants and comprehensive resources that support their efforts to inspire their community to read and discuss a single book or the work of a poet. The Big Read supports organizations across the country in developing community-wide reading programs which encourage reading and participation by diverse audiences. These programs include activities such as author readings, book discussions, panel discussions, lectures, art exhibits, film series, music or dance events, theatrical performances, and other events and activities related to the community’s chosen book or poet.

Organizations selected to participate in The Big Read receive a grant, access to online training resources and opportunities, and educational and promotional materials designed to support widespread community involvement. Copies of the reading selection are not provided but may be purchased with grant funds or matching resources. Organizations must choose from one of 37 works, found here: http://www.neabigread.org/books/.

Amount: Grants range from $2,500-$20,000. Approximately 75 organizations will be awarded. A one-to-one match with nonfederal funds such as staff salaries and wages, private grants, in-kind contributions, and earned revenues is required.

Eligibility: 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations; a division of state, local, or tribal government; or a tax-exempt public library located within the United States or its territories. Eligible applicants include organizations such as literary centers, libraries, museums, colleges and universities, art centers, historical societies, arts councils, tribal governments, humanities councils, literary festivals, and arts organizations. Organizations that are not libraries must partner with a library.

Link: http://www.neabigread.org/guidelines.php

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