FYI,

Children’s Book Project Grant for Rural Libraries

The Children’s Book Project Program Grant from The Pilcrow Foundation helps rural libraries expand their children’s collections with new, quality hardcover books. The program provides a 2-to-1 match for libraries that raise $200–$400 from local sponsors, allowing them to receive up to $1,200 in children’s books selected from a curated list of hundreds of award-winning titles. Applications are accepted from independent rural public libraries, tribal libraries, and libraries within county, regional, or cooperative systems that serve rural communities and have limited operating budgets. Priority is often given to libraries with smaller budgets and those that are new applicants. Learn more here. Access the online application form here.

The ALSC 2025-2026 School-Age Programs and Services Committee has recently created the following toolkit for library staff:

Navigating Through Tough Times: A Toolkit for Library Workers Serving School-Age Children & their Caregivers 

This toolkit is designed to support library workers as they help school-age children and their caregivers navigate challenging circumstances. Whether responding to community-wide crises, family instability, or everyday stressors, this resource offers developmentally appropriate websites, videos, book recommendations, and activity ideas to foster resilience, connection, and emotional well-being. The toolkit equips library staff with tools to create safe, supportive, and inclusive spaces for the children and families they serve.

All the Best,

Sharon Rawlins (she/her)

Youth Services Specialist

Library Development
New Jersey State Library

P.  609-278-2640 x116 

E. sraw...@njstatelib.org

W. www.njstatelib.org

185 West State Street

P.O. Box 520, Trenton, NJ  08625

NJ250: Living Documents, Evolving Rights - New Jersey Through Three Constitutions
https://www.njstatelib.org/nj250