Pop-Up Libraries for Kids

Grant Information
Requested	3000.0
Granted	800.00
Categories	Arts , Education , Community
Location	United States
Grant Cycle	2021

Organization Info
501c3 Organization	Pierce County Library Foundation
Organization Website	http://foundation.piercecountylibrary.org

Grant Description
Description	Libraries are one of the most effective ways for communities to get access to proper educational and intellectual materials. This program will develop Pop-Up Library boxes and training for front-line staff to be effective at mobile delivery, and promotion of library activities. Items in kits may include: signage, a canopy tent, promotional materials, giveaway books, tip sheets for use, and an engagement activity. The kits will also include instruction and appropriate technology for issuing cards and checking out materials. Because the Library is a tax-funded/non-governmental organization, they are unable to use their traditional funding sources to purchase giveaway books. This is where the Library Foundation (a separate 501(c)3) comes in, to fundraise for the program supplies that enhance the quality of service. We will utilize Pop-Up Libraries when: • ...the Library attends a one-time community event (e.g. Meeker Days (SH), Ducks Days (UP), and Summer Fest (STL-LWD) • ...the Library commits to attending a recurring event outside the library building (e.g. weekly farmer’s markets) • ...the Library has an opportunity to partner with an organization to offer library services at their venue (e.g. food banks, business parking lot, schools) We encourage you to hear directly from an outreach program in partnership with the Boys and Girls Club, in this pre-COVID informational video from our outreach staff: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YaobJjBxLfQ or searching Books go out to Pierce County kids on YouTube.
Used for	At a Pop-Up Library you can sign up for a library card, pick up informative handouts and free giveaways, and take part in engaging activities such as crafts. Pop-Up Library Kits help staff create great library experiences for customers outside of library buildings, conveniently and efficiently. The kits are designed to be flexible, allowing staff to be responsive to local needs, even on short notice.
Benefits	The Pierce County Library System is committed to providing direct service to our communities and meeting them where they are. Getting out of the library building to interact with people is even more crucial in service to our target audience of ALICE (asset-limited, income constrained, employed) families, and those living below the poverty line. The public can use library services without having to travel to the library branch itself, including getting a new library card, checking out and returning library materials, and getting promotional and instructional information about the library and its services.