Dollar General Literacy Foundation Presents $55,000 in Grants to Help Rebuild Three School Libraries

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation and American Association of School Librarians (AASL) recently presented three schools with funds totaling $55,000 from its Beyond Words program. The contributions are intended to support rebuilding efforts of school libraries in the wake of natural disaster.  Recipients include:

• Denham Springs Junior High School in Denham Springs, Louisiana
• Mamou Elementary School in Mamou, Louisiana
• Clendenin Elementary School in Elkview, West Virginia

“In keeping with Dollar General’s mission of Serving Others and the Dollar General Literacy Foundation’s focus on reading and education, we are proud to support these schools’ efforts to rebuild their libraries,” said Denine Torr, Dollar General’s senior director of community initiatives.  “These donations will support the libraries’ restoration, provide funds for additional library resources and help further students’ lifelong love of reading.”

The Beyond Words grant program was established in 2006 to provide funding to school libraries affected by disasters. Funding helps schools rebuild, reestablish and/or expand library media programs.  Since its inception, the program has awarded over $2 million and directly affected more than 90,000 students in 25 states.

To be eligible for a Beyond Words grant, applicants must be located within 20 miles of a Dollar General store, distribution center or corporate office and must represent public schools serving students in pre-kindergarten through grade 12. Eligibility requirements include the library must have either lost its building or incurred substantial damage/hardship due to a natural disaster, fire or act recognized by the federal government as terrorism. Grant applicants must meet one of the two requirements.

For more information or to apply for a Beyond Words grant, visit www.dgliteracy.org.