The CANADIAN MUSEUMS ASSOCIATION (CMA) welcomes applications for demonstration projects that use a museum as a resource for literacy learners. Successful applicants will receive up to a maximum of $7 500 to cover project costs. A project should involve adult learners, but intergenerational learning is encouraged, such as initiatives bringing together seniors and children. A project must include the participation of a local literacy organization or program. Museums wishing to apply must be members of the CMA.

Projects are awarded on a competitive basis by a selection committee made up of museum and literacy professionals. Projects are assessed for their innovative aspects, as models for other museums, and for their value and effectiveness as community-based initiatives.

Several 1995 projects illustrate the types of initiatives that are possible. In the Edmonton Art Gallery/Prospects Literacy Association project, learners wrote about works of art in the gallery's collection and produced a catalogue of their writings and the art chosen. In " This Week In Nature," organized by the Nova scotia Museum of Natural History and the Literacy coalition of Nova Scotia, learners from across the province were nature reporters. Students at CORE Literacy in Kitchener produced a clear-language brochure for Woodside Historic Site that is now available to all visitors.

Project Expenses and Duration

Funds may be used for the development and cost of materials, for expenses incurred by learners, such as transportation, and for staff time for museum personnel and/or literacy educators.

The length of time for a project can vary, but it must fall within the period of July 1, 1996 to march 31, 1997.

What to Include in a Application

There is no application form but each submission must contain:

1. a clear description of the project, including its goals, collaborative aspects, time frame and program components.
2. a detailed budget
3. the names and titles of museum staff responsible
4. information about the participating literacy group or organization, including a supporter letter

There must be appropriate public acknowledgement of the CMA's Reading the Museum program and its funder, the National Literacy Secretariat. The deadline for applications is June 5, 1996. Selected projects will be announced at the CMA conference in Vancouver, BC, June 15 to 18. Please send all submissions to:

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