Storycorps, in partnership with the urban libraries council, the library of virginia, wichita public library, brooklyn public library, and north liberty library in eastern iowa will implement one…

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) awarded a $250,887 National Leadership Grant (CFDA 45.312) to Storycorps, Inc. to implement the "One Small Step Libraries" program in partnership with several public libraries across the country. The grant, with a performance period from August 1, 2024 to January 31, 2026, will fund the development and dissemination of resources to support civic dialogue and bridge-building programs in libraries nationwide. Key activities include creating a suite of replicable and adaptable programming materials, convening a community of practice for library leaders to share insights and receive professional development, and broadly distributing resources to enable libraries across the U.S. to implement their own civic engagement and dialogue initiatives.

Storycorps, in partnership with the urban libraries council, the library of virginia, wichita public library, brooklyn public library, and north liberty library in eastern iowa will implement one small step libraries, a model of civic engagement and dialogue for libraries across the country. The grant will create a suite of resources and materials that support civic dialogue and bridge-building programs that are easily replicable and adaptable nationwide. Grant activities will include developing and sharing resources to support library programming that fosters civic connection and engagement opportunities for listening across divides; convening a community of practice that provides emerging library leaders who wish to facilitate civic engagement and bridging activities with opportunities for professional development, a forum to share insights and lessons, a peer support community, and the ongoing development of resources and mentorship for other librarians working in this space; and disseminating resources for the nationwide implementation of bridge-building programs, models, and tools.