The Pennsylvania Department of Education Office of Commonwealth Libraries has announced that 14 libraries across Pennsylvania have been awarded Professional Development Mini-Grants to enable librarians and staff to develop new skills and stay up to date on current trends.
In Berks County, the Reading Public Library received a $5,000 mini-grant.
“Libraries are the cornerstone of our communities, where patrons can stay up to date on the latest news, services, resources, and learning opportunities,” said Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid N. Mumin. “Just as libraries keep Pennsylvanians in-the-know, the professionals in the libraries deserve access to high-quality professional development opportunities. These mini-grants will allow library staff across the Commonwealth to continue their pursuit of lifelong learning and better serve their local communities.”
Individual learning mini-grants of up to $1,000 were awarded to support the activities of a single learner (e.g., virtual courses, webinar/conference attendance, self-directed learning activities); and group learning mini-grants of up to $5,000 were awarded to support any activity that would apply to a group of learners (e.g., hiring speakers for virtual or in-person staff-trainings, online courses for a group). The grants can also be used to host district or region-wide training or to provide training for trustees or volunteers.
Eligible purchases may include virtual learning experiences, continuing education courses, supporting materials for learning experiences (e.g., books, workbooks), in-person learning experiences, speaker fees, conference attendance, etc. Funds must be spent by June 30, 2025.
