American Dream Literacy Initiative: Participating Libraries

The American Dream Literacy initiative is a yearlong program that delivers services and serves thousands of English language learners in a warm and welcoming environment. In 2021, 16 U.S. public libraries were selected through a competitive application process.

To date, more than 200 public libraries have initiated or expanded literacy services for adult English language learners. American Dream libraries offer computer access and training, job readiness programs, and ELL, GED and citizenship classes.

American Dream libraries build replicable programs, develop coalition-building strategies and provide annotated lists of vetted resources for libraries across the country. Much of the program’s success relies on outreach to new immigrant populations, and requires public libraries to build strong partnerships while leveraging additional resources received through these collaborative efforts.

The American Dream Literacy Initiative is administered by ALA's Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services and Public Programs Office. It is generously funded by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation.

2021 American Dream Libraries

2019 American Dream Libraries

2018 American Dream Libraries

Review the grantee lists from previous rounds of the program.