The American Library Association (ALA) invites library workers to apply to be part of Resilient Communities: Libraries Respond to Climate Change, a pilot program to help public and academic libraries engage their communities in programs and conversations that address the climate change crisis.
The project will fund in-person and virtual film screenings, community dialogues and related events based on local interest in 25 public and academic libraries, and it will provide instruction and support for the libraries to be centers for community education and support during extreme weather events.
Learn more about Resilient Communities and apply online: http://www.ala.org/tools/programming/climatechange
Applications will be accepted from July 1 to August 28, 2020. Participating libraries will be selected through a peer-reviewed, competitive application process managed by ALA's Public Programs Office.
Selected libraries will receive:
- $1,000 programming grant to support in-person or virtual climate-related programs and activities
- a small collection of documentaries/docudramas on DVD, with public performance rights
- Climate Resilience Hub support, provided by Communities Responding to Extreme Weather (CREW) in coordination with ALA
- digital promotional materials, online learning opportunities and more
- Participating libraries will collaborate with a community partner organization to host three public programs in 2020-2021 that focus on climate change science, sustainability, emergency weather preparedness, environmental justice or related subjects
Given safety and restrictions around in-person programming due to COVID-19, ALA encourages applicants to consider virtual programs or other formats that prioritize the health and safety of library staff and patrons. Read the project guidelines for details and resources for planning virtual programs.
Project advising for Resilient Communities is provided by representatives of ALA's Sustainability Round Table, a professional forum for ALA members to exchange ideas and opportunities regarding sustainability in order to move toward a more equitable, healthy and economically viable society. If you wish to discuss a potential application one-on-one with a Resilient Communities advisor, please email publicprograms@ala.org to make arrangements. (Project advisors will not serve on the application review committee.)
A free programming guide about in-person and virtual climate change programming will be available on ALA's Programming Librarian website for all libraries in fall 2020. Sign up for ALA's Programming Librarian newsletter to be notified when the guide is available.