The Big Read is an initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services designed to revitalize the role of literature in American popular culture and bring the transformative power of literature into the lives of its citizens. Created by the National Endowment for the Arts in cooperation with Arts Midwest, this program will engage libraries and other community and school partners across the country to encourage citizens to read for pleasure and enlightenment.

Grants generally range from $10,000 to $20,000. Approximately 100 organizations of varying sizes in all 50 states will be selected through two selection cycles for 2007. Deadline for the first round is September 12, 2006 for implementation January - June 2007.

See www.neabigread.org/application_process. for application information.