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FYI,

Books Unbanned Programming Funding

Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) founded Books Unbanned in 2022 to provide teens nationwide with unrestricted access to our entire digital collection, to support their right to read what they like, and to build a network of advocates nationwide to defend and expand the freedom to read.

We are seeking partners who can help us achieve our goal of building a network of teens to become the next generation of library advocates and champions for the freedom to read.

Call for Proposals

We are offering limited funding to libraries in the United States to launch programming for teens and young adults focused on the freedom to read. BPL will award one-time contracted funding in amounts of $1,000, $2,500, $5,000 and $10,000 (totaling $50,000).

Proposals are open to all types and sizes of libraries within the United States. In awarding funds, BPL will pay particular attention to libraries serving small and rural communities, and/or communities facing significant challenges with book censorship. The final selection of partners will be based on community need, programming goals and opportunities for teen engagement.

Timeline

• June 9, 2025 - Open application
• July 11, 2025 11:59pm EST - Close application
• August 18, 2025 - Selected libraries announced
• August 28, 2026 - Program implementation period ends
• September 11, 2026 - Program report due to BPL
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Award Information

Selected libraries will receive up to $10,000 to develop teen and young adult programming focused on the freedom to read. BPL’s Books Unbanned team will work closely with awardees to develop educational programming that provides teens with the knowledge and skills to fight back against censorship in their communities and beyond.

Libraries selected will receive:

• Funds to support teen and young adult programming including participant stipends, food, speaker fees and supplies
• Regular support meetings with project advisors, Emma Karin Eriksson and Kelly Jensen, and other grant winners
• Access to Books Unbanned contacts of authors, organizations and speakers that can be used for virtual visits
• Flyer and social media templates to be used for promotion
• Hard copy of Freedom to Read Teen Advocacy Toolkit

For the complete guidelines and application, visit their website: Books Unbanned Programming Funding

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