Campaign for Grade-Level Reading

In recognition of the role that museums and libraries play in early learning, the Institute of Museum and Library Services is supporting projects that further the goals the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading, including school readiness, summer reading loss, and chronic school absence.

Spearheaded by the Annie E. Casey Foundation and a broad coalition of public/private organizations, including the National Civic League, the National League of Cities, and United Way Worldwide, the campaign is a coordinated, national effort to boost reading by 3rd grade. Recognizing that "third grade is a critical juncture on the road to high school graduation," the campaign plans to tackle three challenges: school readiness, summer reading loss, and chronic school absenteeism.

Importantly, the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading recognizes that it will require community solutions to achieve success, and IMLS support will help libraries and museums play key roles in the early learning.

National Report on the Role of Libraries and Museums in Early Learning
IMLS and the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading are working to elevate the roles that museums and libraries play in supporting young children’s learning and development. In May 2013, we will release a national policy report that describes how libraries and museums make a difference for young learners and helps federal, state and local policy makers partner with libraries and museums to create effective early learning strategies and plans.

Learn more:
December 5, 2012 Task Force Meeting Notes (PDF, 100KB)
December 5, 2012 Task Force Roster (PDF, 180KB)
January 15, 2013 Overview Presentation (PDF, 928KB)

For more information about IMLS and early learning see www.imls.gov/about/early_learning.aspx.

Additional partnership content on the IMLS website: