This project is designed as a pilot to demonstrate the value of library-barbershop partnerships in addressing literacy rates in underserved communities

The Urban Libraries Council was awarded a $792,924 project grant by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the National Leadership Grants program to demonstrate the value of library-barbershop partnerships in addressing literacy rates among underserved communities. The Council will partner with Barbershop Books to establish a network of 40 barbershops and four public library systems to provide literacy services for children. Key deliverables include increasing children's access to supportive adult role models to encourage out-of-school reading, raising library awareness of culturally competent engagement strategies, strengthening libraries' capacity to reduce opportunity gaps, and developing scalable collaboration models. Project outcomes are expected to be achieved by July 2024.

The urban libraries council will partner with barbershop books to build and support a network of 40 barbershops and four public library systems to provide effective and community-based literacy services for underserved children. Project outcomes will include increased access for children to influential adults who can inspire and encourage out-of-school time reading and positive attitudes toward reading; increased awareness among libraries of the value of employing a culturally authentic approach in engaging underserved communities; increased involvement of local leaders who can influence and expand literacy efforts; strengthened capacity for libraries to be a major factor in reducing reading opportunity and achievement gaps; the demonstration of scalable models for library-barbershop collaborations; and a set of resources including a draft framework for libraries as literacy equity leaders.