The NEA Foundation supports public school libraries serving economically disadvantaged through periodic donations of books, grants and facility improvements. The NEA Foundation provides this support in collaboration with the National Education Association and the Pearson Charitable Foundation.  Support is awarded through an application process that is open to all public school educators who meet the eligibility requirements below.

Eligibility: Applicants must meet all of the criteria listed below. Approved awards will be made to the applicants' schools. Only one eligible applicant per school may submit an application.

• The applicant must be a practicing preK-12 school library media specialist, teacher, or education support professional* in a U.S. public school.
• At least 70 percent of the students in the applicant’s school must be eligible for the free or reduced-price lunch program.
• The applicant must agree to serve as the contact person for the award and all related public relations activities.

Deadline & Notification: Applications must be submitted as an e-mail attachment and sent to libraryaward@nea.org. Only award recipients will be notified in writing. We are currently not accepting applications.

Restrictions: When cash grants are made, the funds may be used only to purchase books and other reading materials for public school libraries. Funds may not be used for lobbying or religious purposes or to pay stipends, salaries, or administrative fees. Employees, members of the board of directors, and immediate family members of the staff and board of the NEA Foundation or the National Education Association are not eligible to apply for this award. Funds are not transferable and will be paid only to the school identified in the application form.

Criteria: Factors that will or may be considered during selection include economic need and geographic location and other demographic characteristics.

Submission: Please complete all three parts of this application, save the document, and submit it as an e-mail attachment to libraryaward@nea.org. For your convenience the applicant data sheet is available in two formats: Microsoft Word file or pdf file. Remember to retain a copy for your files. Applications that do not comply with the instructions or that include materials not specifically requested will not be reviewed. Only applications received electronically as specified will be considered. If you have questions pertaining to this award, please contact Anita Merina at 202.822.7289.

Download Application:

• Microsoft Word file
•  PDF file

If you would like make a donation to help bring the gift of reading to students, visit the donation section of the website and make an online contribution.