The following is a text-only press release from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). An HTML version of this release can be viewed on the agency's Web site at http://www.imls.gov/news/2010/012910.shtm FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 29, 2010 IMLS Press Contacts 202-653-4632 Jeannine Mjoseth, [log in to unmask] Mamie Bittner, [log in to unmask] IMLS Calls for 2010 Native American Library Services Enhancement Grant Applications Application Deadline: May 3, 2010 Washington, DC-The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is accepting applications for the 2010 Native American Library Services Enhancement Grants program. Federally-recognized tribes and Alaska Native villages and corporations may apply for these grants to improve existing library services or implement new services, particularly as they relate to the goals of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA). In 2009, IMLS supported 208 tribes with the noncompetitive Native American Library Services Basic Grants and an additional 17 tribes with Enhancement Grants, for a total of $3.4 million. These tribes developed a wide array of library-related projects, from providing new services to outlying reservations communities and promoting healthy lifestyles through new programs and materials, to creating pre-literacy programs for preschool children, their parents, and caregivers. This year, IMLS hopes to serve even more tribes with this important grant program. IMLS has scheduled a webinar to give prospective applicants an opportunity to ask IMLS staff questions pertaining to Native American Library Services Enhancement Grant applications. This webinar will take place on March 8, 2010, at 4:00 pm ET. Please visit the website for more information closer to the webinar date. Please contact Alison Freese, Senior Program Officer, at 202/653-4665 or [log in to unmask] with questions about this grant program. About the Institute of Museum and Library Services The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's 123,000 libraries and 17,500 museums. The Institute's mission is to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas. The Institute works at the national level and in coordination with state and local organizations to sustain heritage, culture, and knowledge; enhance learning and innovation; and support professional development. To learn more about the Institute, please visit www.imls.gov.