The International Dyslexia Association Ontario partners with libraries to ensure access to information and resources that parents and caregivers need to recognize the early warning signs of dyslexia and support their child’s literacy development.

Since 2021 IDA Ontario has granted over 280 library branches the funds to purchase over 10 000 decodable books. Our goal is for decodable books (see below) to be available to every family in Ontario through their local library branch.

2024 Library Mini-Grant

In 2024, we will continue to fund decodable books and dyslexia awareness kits in Ontario public libraries.  We encourage all libraries, even those who have previously received the grant, to complete the application form. If a library is not successful at receiving a grant this year they are encouraged to resubmit next year.  

Parameters

Successful applicants will receive a $500 cheque to purchase decodable books. We will have a list of eligible books on our website. The library can download the list to review and check availability through their vendors.

IDA Ontario will provide each library with a kit for Read October, our annual dyslexia awareness campaign. During Dyslexia Awareness Month, Read October raises awareness and funds for next year’s library grants. Each library must display their decodable books and our print materials. Libraries should then post pictures of their display on social media using the hashtags #ReadOctober, #DyslexiaAwareness, and #IDAOntario.

All libraries are encouraged to download and display our decodable book poster, and attach the provided spine stickers to help make these books easy to find on the shelf.

 Additionally, libraries are encouraged to engage in IDA Ontario initiatives to increase understanding of the Science of Reading. We offer one complimentary license of “The Basics of Decoding and Spelling Instruction” to each library branch and have library-specific training for optimizing volunteer reading programs.

Timeline

  • Applications for the mini grant must be received by June 21, 2024.

  • Libraries will be notified of their approval and contracts must be received by July 2, 2024

  • Funds will be sent by August 12, 2024

  • Libraries must purchase decodable books and showcase them in their library before October 1, 2024

  • Libraries will have until December 1, 2024, to provide IDA Ontario with receipts, pictures of their Read October display, and a list of the books purchased using the grant funds.

What are decodable books?

Decodable books use text that has been carefully written using evidence-based strategies to support reading development. These books are wonderful for all new readers, but are vital for children with dyslexia. Science shows that the most efficient way to learn a word is by decoding it. Decoding means using knowledge of letter/sound correspondence and English spelling patterns to sound out/orthographically map a word. Decodable books are purposely written to help beginning and emerging readers master decoding.

IDA Ontario’s mini-grants will ensure assist libraries in giving the community access to these books. Funds from the grant can also be used to purchase books about dyslexia and the Science of Reading from a list of books recommended by IDA Ontario.

Please note that only public libraries are eligible for the mini-grant.

Applications are now closed.

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