FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 1, 2005

Press Contacts
202-653-4632
Eileen Maxwell, emaxwell@imls.gov
Institute of Museum and Library Services

202-207-3333
Kalisha Davis kalisha@forumforyouthinvestment.org
SThe Forum for Youth Investment

The Forum for Youth Investment Hosts Audio Conference on Out-of-School Time at Museums, Parks, and Libraries

Marsha Semmel, IMLS Director of Strategic Partnerships among Guest Speakers

Washington, DC— The Forum for Youth Investment’s fourth installment in its Out-of-School Time Audio Conference series, will be held Wednesday February 2, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. (ET). The discussion will focus on the roles that museums, parks and libraries play in out-of-school time. Speakers with national expertise and local experience will explore the roles these institutions have played historically in the lives of children and youth, how they are currently contributing to out-of-school time, what unique resources they bring to the table, examples of cutting edge practice and partnerships and some current policy opportunities and challenges.

Guest speakers scheduled for this audio conference include:

• Elaine Meyers, manager of children and teen services, Phoenix Public Library Marsha Semmel, director of strategic partnerships, Institute of Museum and Library Services
• Peter Witt, distinguished professor, Department of Recreation, Park and Tourism Sciences, Texas A&M University

This opportunity is open and free to the public, however, space is limited. To register online for the Museums, Parks and Libraries Audio Conference, click here or call: 303-928-3133.

About the Forum
The Forum for Youth Investment is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to helping communities and the nation make sure all young people are Ready by 21™ - ready for work, college and life. This goal requires that young people have the supports, opportunities and services needed to prosper and contribute where they live, learn, work, play and make a difference. The Forum provides information, technical assistance, training, network support and partnership opportunities needed to increase the quality and quantity of youth investment and youth involvement.

The Forum's 8th Out-of-School Time Policy Commentary (October 2004) is now available online. Read Out-of-School Time and Civic Engagement at this link. Visit the Forum's Web site at www.forumforyouthinvestment.org.

About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is an independent federal grant-making agency dedicated to creating and sustaining a nation of learners by helping libraries and museums serve their communities. The Institute fosters leadership, innovation, and a lifetime of learning by supporting the nation's 17,500 museums and 122,000 libraries. The Institute also encourages partnerships to expand the educational benefit of libraries and museums. To learn more about the Institute, please visit: http://www.imls.gov.