ALSC/Candlewick Press Light the Way Grant
The ALSC/Candlewick Press Light the Way Grant from the American Library Association funds innovative library outreach for underserved children to promote inclusivity and community impact.
Funder: American Library Association
Due Dates: December 18, 2026: Application deadline
Funding Amounts: $3,000 per grant; single-year funding; typically one award annually
Summary: Supports innovative or expanded library outreach to underserved children (birth–14), fostering inclusive and impactful community programs.
Description
The ALSC/Candlewick Press Light the Way Grant, administered by the Association for Library Service to Children (a division of the American Library Association), provides $3,000 to support libraries in developing or expanding outreach programs for underserved children from birth through age 14. Sponsored by Candlewick Press in honor of author Kate DiCamillo, the grant recognizes initiatives that address the unique needs of children facing barriers such as learning or physical differences, language challenges, or non-traditional family or school environments. The program encourages exemplary, innovative, and replicable projects that promote inclusivity and meaningful community impact.
