MPL receives “The Great American Read” programming grants from ALA and PBS
The library’s programming for “The Great American Read” will kick off at 7 p.m. on May 17 at Milwaukee Area Technical College.
Milwaukee Public Library announced today that it will receive a grant from the American Library Association (ALA) and PBS to host programs around “The Great American Read,” an eight-part television series premiering May 22 that will engage audiences with a list of 100 diverse books they will be encourage to read and share their personal connections to the titles.
“MPL is honored to receive this grant, and for the opportunity to partner with our longtime friends at PBS,” said Paula Kiely, Library Director. “’The Great American Read’ is a wonderful way for Milwaukee residents and library patrons to celebrate the joy of reading through the exploration of America’s best loved novels, and just in time for our citywide Summer Reading Programs for all ages which kicks off Monday!”
The library’s programming for “The Great American Read” will kick off at 7 p.m. on May 17 at Milwaukee Area Technical College. Following a screening of the television series, a reception and open discussion will occur and books from the list will be available for both check-out and purchase. More information can be found at mpl.org/events.
More than 220 public libraries applied for the $2,000 grants, which will support public programs around the series. MPL was one of just 50 libraries nationwide to be selected. In addition to the grant money, MPL will receive a DVD collection of the series with public performance rights; a hardcover copy of the companion book, “The Great American Read: The Book of Books” by PBS (Black Dog & Leventhal, August 21, 2018); and other resources.
In fall 2018, seven new episodes will air, featuring appearances by celebrities, athletes, experts, authors and everyday Americans advocating for their favorite book, culminating with a finale that reveals America’s best-loved novel as chosen by the American public.
About Milwaukee Public Library
Milwaukee Public Library is an anchor institution that helps build healthy families and vibrant neighborhoods – the foundation of a strong Milwaukee. Since 1878, Milwaukee Public Library has been a free provider of education and information for residents of Milwaukee and beyond. With 14 locations, and more than three million items in circulation, MPL offers free access to a rich collection of materials both physical and digital, access to technology, classes, exhibitions, programming and more. From toddlers to scholars, MPL serves more than one million patrons who come through its doors annually and many more around the globe who use its resources at www.mpl.org. To offer this wide array of free programming, MPL relies on both public and private funding. Learn more about how to support Milwaukee Public Library at mpl.org/support.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.
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