YALSA (the Young Adult Library Services Association) is giving out 10 mini grants to assist librarians in hosting Teen Read Week 2010 programs. Mini grants consist of $450 cash and $50 worth of Teen Read Week products.

An "elevator pitch" is a quick, concise summary of what your organization does,  so named because it should last no longer than the average elevator ride.

Use PLA's Awards Application form to nominate a library (open through December 1, 2009).

The EBSCO Excellence in Small and/or Rural Public Library Service Award provides recognition and a $1,000 honorarium to a public library serving a population of 10,000 or less that demonstrates excellence of service to its community as exemplified by an overall service program or a special program of significant accomplishment.

Nominations are open for Carnegie Corporation of New York/New York Times I Love My Librarian Award.

Up to ten librarians will be honored. Each will receive $5000, a plaque, and $500 travel stipend to attend an awards reception in New York.

There are three categories:

Sandy Zuehlke (director of Coloma Public Library) shared this fundraising success story:

In January 2009 the Coloma Area Historical Society (CAHS) held its "hugely successful" 2nd annual Chili Cook-Off.  It drew ten competing teams from local businesses, business owners, and the general public.  Over 150 people attended the event, held in the Coloma community center, and it was standing room only!

Tired of the book sales and bake sales?

The Libri Foundation's list of fundraising ideas offers 68 fundraising, ideas including ethnic potlucks, historic home tours, plant sales, and more.

All of the ideas have been successful fundraisers for Friends groups or other library supporters in rural communities.