The American Dream Starts @ Your Library

For many immigrants, the American dream starts @ your library. America’s public libraries provide equitable access to information of all kinds. With information comes knowledge and the possibility to learn and achieve, the opportunity to work and advance, and the power to participate in the democratic process.

For generations, the public library has been the cornerstone of the American dream. The library collects the heritage of the American past and shapes the promise of the future. The library also helps immigrants hold on to their native words and customs so that they can tell their stories, preserve their culture, and share their wisdom across generations.

At your library, new immigrants can find the reassurance and the resources they need to navigate a new culture and acquire new literacy skills.

Your library already has:

* open doors
* skilled professionals
* diverse collections
* free computer access
* connections to the community
   

See this featured resource:
Advocating in a Tough Economy Toolkit

“During tough economic times, people turn to libraries for their incredible array of free resources, from computers to books, DVDs and CDs, for help with a job hunt or health information. The average annual cost to the taxpayer for access to this wide range of resources is about $31, the cost of one hardcover book. In good times or bad, libraries are a great value!”

2008-2009 ALA President Jim Rettig

This toolkit offers:

  • a brief primer on the origins of library literacy services to immigrant populations throughout a century of service.
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  • an introductory guide to delivering and supporting literacy services for immigrants @ your library.
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  • models and examples of literacy services for adult English language learners from libraries across the country.
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The American Dream Starts @ your library is an initiative of the American Library Association.
This initiative is generously funded by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation