Apply for the Bridge to Understanding Award

Do you use children's books to explore cultures around the world to promote international understanding among children?  Apply by October 1 for potential program recognition.

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USBBY's Bridge to Understanding Award formally acknowledges the work of individuals and organizations who create programs that use children’s and young adult books to foster cross-cultural understanding.

The award is sponsored and awarded by USBBY as one way the organization furthers its mission:

Established in memory of Arlene Pillar, an educator who served USBBY as newsletter editor from 1984 until her untimely death in 1990, the Bridge to Understanding Award is funded by the Lesesne Family to share their passion for books and reading that bring a cultural awareness to readers.   
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The award carries a monetary prize of $1,000 and is given biennially.  

Ideological Framework: 
The Award Committee appreciates that culture is a complex, varied, and often-contested construction of the human experience.  Programs appropriate for the award help develop the skills of literacy while fostering an appreciation for literature.  Programs may be based on any of a wide variety of cultural perspectives and contexts.   
Timeframe & Participants:  
Programs considered for the award may be a one-time event, or an ongoing series of events, that serve children ranging in age from kindergarten through tenth grade. To be eligible, programs should be current (completed or begun no more than a year before application).  

Deadline:  
The award is given every other year to coincide with the IBBY Regional Conference hosted by USBBY.  Please submit a completed application and supporting materials by October 1,  2022 to be considered.

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