The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory will give the 15 libraries on the extended “Visions of the Universe” tour stipends of $500 each from NASA funds. Libraries may use the stipends for Visions program expenses and purchase of exhibit-related materials for library collections.
The $500 stipend may be used only for program expenses and materials including: speaker honoraria and travel expenses, publicity expenses, postage, printing, photocopying, telephone costs, film rental, travel expenses for groups visiting the library (e.g., van rental), acquisition of books, magazine subscriptions, CDs, DVDs, laminated posters, educational computer games, or other printed or audiovisual educational materials directly related to the themes of the exhibit. Please consult the ALA Public Programs Office if you have questions about particular expenditures.
The funder and sponsors prefer that the program stipend not be used for costs associated with social events, such as refreshments, decorations, costumes, etc. Funds may not be applied to the purchase of equipment that will be used for purposes other than astronomy and space science programming in the library on a permanent basis.