Using grants awarded by the Wisconsin Center for the Book, communities can celebrate and explore the literature of Wisconsin with its authors and illustrators.

The Wisconsin Center for the Book will award up to four grants of $300 each to qualifying organizations wishing to sponsor a Wisconsin author or illustrator at a public event.

The event must be open to the public and free of charge.

The grants are made possible through the cooperation of the Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts and Letters and the generosity of donors.

Wisconsin nonprofit organizations interested in books and reading are eligible to apply.

Collaboration among groups is preferred.

Such groups may include, but are not limited to, public libraries; public and private elementary, secondary, and post-secondary schools; community organizations; and places of worship. Libraries are encouraged to look beyond their Friends groups for partnerships.

Applications may be obtained at: www.wisconsinacademy.org.

Then under: About Us.

Then under: Center for the Book.

Then under: Grant Application Information.

Timeline:

July 1, 2008: Applications due; if mailed, they must be postmarked on or before this date.

July 30, 2008: Winners will be notified by this date.

Sept. 1, 2008 "“ April 30, 2009: Programs must be scheduled between these dates. A final report must be submitted within 10 days of the event or the honorarium will be forfeited.

Definition of a Wisconsin author or illustrator is: Any author or illustrator who has lived in Wisconsin for a significant period of time, including someone who may no longer be living in the state.

More information can be obtained by calling Sarah McGowan, WAIS 2008-09 Chair. Contact her at (920)748-2784 or windsong@centurytel.net.