In our brand new episode of GrantTalk, host Libby Hikind speaks with Karren Timmermans, President and Executive Director of the Pilcrow Foundation. This foundation offers grants for rural libraries across the United States. Through in-kind donations, the goal is to provide these public rural libraries with hardcover children’s books.
Karren explains that the organization began in 2013, following in the footsteps of Barbara McKillip of the Libre Foundation. After Barbara’s retirement, Karren stepped up to ensure that the vital work of supporting libraries would continue. Since then, the Pilcrow Foundation has been committed to helping rural libraries enrich their collections and promote literacy.
How the Pilcrow Foundation Works
The foundation operates on a matching grant system. Libraries can raise $200 to $400 from their communities, and the Pilcrow Foundation matches the amount two-to-one. The foundation provides a two-to-one match for every dollar raised, allowing libraries to receive $600 to $1,200 worth of brand-new children’s picture books. Karren personally curates a list of over 700 titles for children up to grade eight.
Karren emphasizes that community involvement is a huge part of the process. Local businesses, friends of the library, and even banks step up to support rural libraries. The result is often a community-wide celebration where donors and local sponsors are recognized for their contributions.
Two Grant Cycles Each Year
The Pilcrow Foundation operates two annual grant cycles for rural libraries. The deadlines are April 1st and October 1st. The foundation has a strong relationship with the libraries it serves, receiving regular reports, photos, and even videos of events. Many communities celebrate the arrival of the books with local festivities, showcasing the joy these contributions bring to children and their families.
Karren also touches on the foundation’s disaster relief grant, which provides $800 worth of new books to libraries suffering natural disasters like floods or hurricanes. This non-matching grant ensures that libraries impacted by disasters can quickly rebuild their collections.
Grants for Rural Libraries Make a Lasting Impact
Karren’s passion for literacy and community engagement shines through every aspect of the Pilcrow Foundation’s work. “If you give a child a book, you’ve taught them to read,” said Libby during the interview, highlighting the profound impact these grants have on young readers. Karren echoed this sentiment, expressing her pride in seeing the difference these donations make.
The foundation’s future looks bright as it continues its mission of supporting rural libraries. Karren and her team remain dedicated to giving children access to the books they need to grow, learn, and explore.
Explore more about GrantWatch:
GrantWatch
The Queen of Grants: From Teacher to Grant Writer to CEO
Find out more about Karren Timmermans and the Pilcrow Foundation:
The Pilcrow Foundation
Pilcrow Foundation Facebook
About GrantWatch
With over 8,500 grants currently available, GrantWatch.com is the leading grant listing directory. Upgrade to a MemberPlus+ subscription to view the full grant details, including eligibility criteria and application information. For more information, you can also visit the GrantWatch FAQ page. To see the great value of all 20 of the top GrantWatch features, click here. Watch the latest episode of GrantTalk, powered by GrantWatch, with host Libby Hikind. You don’t want to miss this. Visit us on YouTube weekly. Get your copy of The Queen of Grants: From Teacher to Grant Writer to CEO, by Libby Hikind.
