Since 2009 the National Book Foundation has awarded the Innovations in Reading Prize to an individual or organization that inspires readers and engages new audiences with literature. From bicycle-powered libraries that serve a homeless community to empowering Harry Potter fans to build libraries around the world, the Innovations in Reading Prize recognizes literary activists who share the National Book Foundation’s aims to engage readers from all backgrounds. The Foundation’s Board of Directors will name one $10,000 winner, as well as up to four projects for honorable mentions. The winners will also be invited to present at the National Book Foundation’s annual Why Reading Matters conference in June. Individuals and US-based nonprofit organizations are eligible for this prize. Interested applicants will find additional details on GetEdFunding, a website sponsored by CDW•G with access to a free database of thousands of funding opportunities for educators.
Deadline: Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. (ET) on February 13, 2020; the 2020 winner and honorable mentions will be announced during the first week of May.
We Need Diverse Books (WNDB), a nonprofit advocacy group seeking to diversify the publishing industry, has rolled out an initiative to fight book bans with a grant program targeting schools and libraries in underserved communities.
To support math and STEM understanding, a variety books can help teachers at preK–grade 4 provide meaningful conversations with their students by integrating mathematical understandings through children’s literature. These books are among teachers’ favorites.
The Reach Every Reader initiative—a collaboration among Harvard Graduate School of Education, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Integrated Learning Initiative, and Florida State University—is expanding access to its pioneering Small Wonders app as part of its work to provide comprehensive early literacy solutions through research in education, developmental psychology, and technology.