Alexandria Library Receives American Dream Grant

The Alexandria Library system has received an American Dream Grant to expand literacy services for adult English language learners.

The $8,000 American Dream Grant, awarded by the American Library Association with support from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, was awarded to 45 public libraries in 21 states across the country. The one-time grants range from $5,000 to $15,000.

The grants help libraries build their print and digital English as a Second Language collections, increase computer access and raise the visibility of library services for immigrant populations.

“The library is very pleased to receive this award since it supports our efforts to help those individuals in our community for which English is a second language," said Rose Dawson, Alexandria Library’s director, in a news release. "Whether these resources are used to prepare adults for the workforce, help them play a role in their child’s education, or simply bridge the digital divide, it allows us to expand our outreach into Alexandria's diverse community."

The newest American Dream libraries join a cohort of 100 previously funded programs in Dollar General communities. All American Dream libraries are located within 20 miles of a Dollar General store, distribution center or corporate office.

The American Dream libraries built easily replicable programs, developed coalition-building strategies and provided annotated lists of proven resources for libraries across the country serving adult English language learners.

“We applaud the Dollar General Literacy Foundation's recognition of the role libraries play in building their communities,” said Maureen Sullivan, 2012-13 ALA president, in a news release. “Because of the Foundation's generosity, 44 libraries will have additional resources to build their literacy programs and to extend a welcome to all people they serve.”

To see the list of the 2013 libraries, please visit www.americandreamtoolkit.org.