On July 11, The Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) awarded federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) direct grants to the Reading Public Library. The MBLC recently increased overall grant amounts so that libraries can develop sustainable projects that have a lasting impact on their communities and residents.
The $20,000 grant, which runs from October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025, will allow the Reading Public Library to further develop and expand education with garden and nature-based learning spaces in alignment with the library’s current strategic plan.
Amy Lannon, Director of The Reading Public Library, said, “This is a great opportunity for education and collaboration around matters our community cares about. I want to thank the Reading Garden Club, the Town Forest Committee, the Reading Community Garden, and the Reading Health Department for their input and letters of support for this project.”
More details of the grant will be released this fall. The abstract of the grant, which will include a combination of modest green improvements (inside and outside) and environmental, sustainability, and health programs, follows:
The grant aims to transform Reading Public Library into a vibrant hub for intergenerational and inclusive education on nature and sustainability. The project will build community through communit.
Rooted in Reading is made possible by grant funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services as administered by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.
