News Release

10/12/2006
Rhode Island Family Literacy Initiative Receives $45,000 LSTA Grant

The Rhode Island Family Literacy Initiative (RIFLI), based at Providence Public Library, has been awarded a grant of $45,000 from the Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services. The free, first-step intergenerational family literacy programs are offered at four Rhode Island public libraries: Providence, Cranston, East Providence, and Pawtucket. Participants receive instruction in English as a Second Language (ESL), citizenship preparation and computer training, as well as children’s programming, student resource support, and links to library resources and services. For more information, go to: www.rifli.org.

Grant programs are supported by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services with funds from the Library Services and Technology Act. This 2006 LSTA grant is for the period of October 1, 2006 through September 30, 2007.

RIFLI is a collaborative of four public library systems in Rhode Island working together to provide free family literacy programs in their communities. Participating library systems include: Cranston Public Library, East Providence Public Library, Pawtucket Public Library and Providence Public Library. As of September 2006, there are 17 programs taking place at 13 library branches and community centers in the collaborative. Providence Public Library is the host site of the program, overseeing and providing fiscal management of the program as well as various in-kind administrative supports. West Warwick Public Library is an independent affiliate of RIFLI.