ALA is still accepting applications for Libraries Transforming Communities (LTC): Focus on Small and Rural Libraries<https://programminglibrarian.org/articles/apply-now-round-2-libraries-transforming-communities-focus-small-and-rural-libraries>, a grant initiative that will distribute nearly $2 million to libraries in small and rural communities. Up to 450 grants of $3,000 will be distributed. Apply by March 4! Read the project guidelines<http://www.ala.org/tools/librariestransform/libraries-transforming-communities/focusgrants> to learn more or sign up for time to talk<https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScDPcFtf2D3J5FWYKaL_jY0tNkFgCVkBogAswnIgoMENCOs9w/viewform> with an ALA Public Programs Office staff member to talk about a proposal. Grant recipients will: * Complete a free ALA e-course on basic facilitation skills * Host at least one conversation (virtual or in-person) with community members on a chosen topic (e.g. book/film discussion, conversation about community issues, etc.) * Receive $3,000 to help support work/purchases related to your conversation topic Grant funds may cover a wide range of expenses, including staff time and collections and technology purchases. ALA has already distributed 200 LTC: Focus on Small and Rural Library grants. Here are a few of the conversations that libraries will be doing. * Stair District Library (Morenci, Michigan) will talk with residents about the recent loss of the community's 150-year-old newspaper in a discussion series called Extra! Extra! Read All About It!...But Where? * Igiugig Tribal Library (Igiugig, Alaska) will gather the community to ask for their input on how to deal with Igiugig's lack of affordable housing. * Danville High School (Danville, Arkansas) will have an online conversation with students, school staff and residents about the importance of mask-wearing during the pandemic. * Following a surge in suicides in their agricultural and mining town, staff at Duncan Public Library (Duncan, Arizona) will explore mental health through book and film talks and create an ongoing community support group called the Brain Support Brigade. * Neligh Public Library (Neligh, Nebraska) will host online discussions about race for their predominantly white community. The series will kick off with a reading of a historical fiction title set in nearby Omaha after the 1919 lynching of African American resident Will Brown. * Olive G. Pettis Memorial Library (Goshen, New Hampshire) will host nonfiction book discussions about nature. The library will also install permanent plaques throughout the region identifying local flora and fauna with QR codes that residents can scan for more information. Three Michigan libraries received funds in the first round. Interlochen Public Library (Interlochen, MI), Ray Township Public Library (Ray, MI), Stair District Library (Morenci, MI) Be sure to take ALA up on their offer above to discuss your grant proposal as well. They can provide help with your ideas and submission. Shannon Shannon White Library of Michigan, 702 W. Kalamazoo, Lansing, MI 48909 Whites29@michigan.gov<mailto:Whites29@michigan.gov> 517-335-1507 | www.mi.gov/libraryofmichigan<http://www.mi.gov/libraryofmichigan>