American Dream Literacy Initiative

About the American Dream Literacy Initiative
Administered by ALA’s Office for Diversity, Literacy, and Outreach Services and funded by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, the American Dream Literacy Initiative is an adult literacy program based in public libraries throughout the U.S. To date, more than 185 libraries in Dollar General communities have initiated or expanded literacy services for adult English language learners. The grants allow libraries to augment their print and digital ESL collections; increase computer access and training; provide job training; hold ELL, GED, and citizenship classes; and raise the visibility of services for immigrant populations. As part of the initiative, American Dream libraries build replicable programs, develop coalition-building strategies, and provide annotated lists of vetted resources for libraries across the country. ALA shares the libraries’ successes and strategies through our website, on webinars, and at state, regional, and national conferences. Through library-delivered services and community partnerships, the program serves thousands of English language learners and their families.
Administered by:

2017 Winner(s)
Bemis Public Library
Littleton, CO
Campbell County Public Library System
Lynchburg, VA
Cresskill Public Library
Cresskill, NJ
David A. Howe Public Library
Wellsville, NY
The Ferguson Library
Stamford, CT
First Regional Library
Hernando, MS
Gail Borden Public Library District
Elgin, IL
Keyport Public Library
Keyport, NJ
Lebanon County Library District
Lebanon, PA
Maplewood Memorial Library
Maplewood, NJ