Humanities Grants:Projects of Special Interest: Book Discussion Programs


The Schlow Library received PHC funds for an author talk by two-time Newbery Medal winner Lois Lowry, an event highlighting the Centre County Reads project on The Giver.

Humanities Grants on Literature
Reading great books and sharing your thoughts about them with others…These activities are central to the humanities. Informal book discussions led by an expert facilitator help participants to discover new books and ideas, build relationships with diverse fellow community members, and develop a framework they can use when reading and interpreting literature in the future.

The PHC invites libraries and other nonprofits to sponsor book discussions using Humanities Grants. A PHC grant can cover honoraria for discussion leaders, books, and promotional expenses. Programs can range from one to six sessions. Larger institutions may consider hosting several discussion groups. Grants may also be used to plan more complex programs.

  • Quick Grant ($500)
    Deadline: Applications can be submitted at any time, but must be received at least 8 weeks before the project start date.

  • Small Grant ($501-$3,000)
    Deadline: Applications can be submitted at any time, but must be received at least 12 weeks before the project start date.

  • Large Grant ($3,001-$20,000, with a supplemental match of $6,000 from PHC possible)
    Deadline: Intent to Apply forms are due July 1. Applications for eligible projects have a postmark deadline of September 2. For projects that begin no earlier than the following February.

Possible Starting Points for Projects

Starting Point   Examples
A popular genre:   mystery, memoir, science fiction, horror, romance, and historical fiction
A place:   local, regional, or international writers
A cultural heritage:   African American, Latino, Native American, or Asian American authors
A prize-winner:   National Book Award, Pulitzer Prize, PEN/Faulkner Award, or Booker Prize
A literary form:   novel, drama, poetry, satire, short story, and essay
A time period:   Victorian, modern, or contemporary writers

Program Guidelines

  • Organizations in rural counties and in urban communities that have never received a grant from the PHC are especially encouraged to apply.

  • Organizations that collaborate for county-wide programming are especially encouraged to apply.

  • Proposed programs need to involve humanities experts and community representatives in collaborative planning and implementation. The PHC can assist in locating humanities experts as well as other program resources.

The Application Process

  1. Review the guidelines and the application [PDF] | [Word] | [Excel] to determine if your proposed project meets the program's requirements.

  2. Submit an application. Instructions for preparing and photocopying your proposal are included on the application forms. PHC recommends that applications be sent by certified mail, return receipt requested. PHC will not be responsible for applications that are lost or damaged in the mail. Applications that are incomplete or postmarked after the deadline will not be accepted. Applicants will be notified of all funding decisions.

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