Harlan Elementary awarded $5K grant from Laura Bush Foundation for America's Libraries

DALLAS — Harlan Elementary School was one of 220 schools from 38 states nationwide to receive a $5,000 grant through the Laura Bush Foundation for America's Libraries. This year, the Laura Bush Foundation for America's Libraries awarded more than $1 million in library grants. Many libraries will use the funds to update and diversify their collections.

Harlan Elementary Media Specialist and National Board Certified Teacher Lisa Arnett applied for the grant in December and shared her excitement about being selected. "I was very surprised, but I was very grateful to have gotten this grant, because since I've been here, we've never gotten a grant this large," she said. "It was a great thing that our library and our kids definitely deserve."

Arnett explained how the grants will be used for much-needed updates to Harlan's library nonfiction collection. "I had some books that had Pluto as a planet; Pluto is not a planet anymore, so some of those things are dated and they need to be updated," she said.

With Alabama's focus on third grade reading proficiency, Arnett said the grant can work hand-in-hand with helping students meet and surpass curriculum standards. "I will make sure that I get with the teachers and try to correspond with them—anything that they have in their curriculum that I can order in the library," she said.

"Books have the power to spark curiosity and inspire lifelong learning," Laura Bush said. "We are thrilled to provide these grants so that librarians can refresh their shelves—opening the door for students to discover new interests and endless adventures."

At the annual Laura Bush Book Club event, which is part of the Engage at the Bush Center series presented by NexPoint, Mrs. Bush's 2025 summer reading list was revealed. This annual collection includes recommendations for young readers through middle schoolers.

"Reading helps children connect with the world around them," Bush said. "This year's summer reading list celebrates America, everyday adventures, and friendships that stand the test of time. I hope families will take time to enjoy the slower pace of summer and enjoy reading these stories together."

The list features 16 books, including Jenna Bush Hager and Barbara Pierce Bush's "I Loved You First." It also features mother/daughter duo Anita McBride and Giovanna McBride's "First Ladies Make History." Inspired by the Laura Bush Foundation, Anita McBride and Giovanna McBride will donate a copy of "First Ladies Make History" to every elementary school that has received a Laura Bush Foundation grant since 2002.

The next round of library grant applications for the 2025-2026 school year will open in late 2025. Visit bushcenter.org/laurabushfoundation to learn more.

The Laura Bush Foundation for America's Libraries supports school libraries with the greatest needs to encourage all students to develop a love of reading and learning. Since its inception in 2002, it has awarded $23 million to more than 4,000 schools nationwide.

The George W. Bush Institute's Education and Opportunity work, which houses the Laura Bush Foundation for America's Libraries, is generously supported by The Allstate Foundation. The Laura Bush Foundation is managed as a restricted fund at the George W. Bush Presidential Center in Dallas, Texas. More information can be found at bushcenter.org/laurabushfoundation and www.bushcenter.org.

By Jeremy Jackson