What is the Mary Lou Dewey Grant?    

Mary Lou Dewey was a lifelong advocate for libraries. Ms. Dewey was a founding member and President of Citizens for Maryland Libraries and a member of the Maryland Library Association for nearly 50 years. She helped draft and facilitate passage of the Maryland Library Act in 1961. Ms Dewey received the American Library Association Trustee Citation and was named to the ALA National Honor Roll. She died in 2007. In honor of Ms. Dewey's tireless efforts to enhance library service in Maryland for more than 50 years, CML established the Mary Lou Dewey Library Advocacy Fund. This fund supports an annual grant for projects that encourage citizens to use and support Maryland libraries.

Current members of CML, any Friends groups or other citizens with an interest in Maryland libraries are eligible. Individuals or groups not currently CML members may send their membership application and dues along with their entry.

A proposal for a project must emphasize an increase in citizen awareness and involvement in Maryland libraries. Creativity and clarity of the proposed project will be evaluated. A short description of how the project will improve customer service or community outreach to their library should be included with the proposal.

January 31, 2025, by 11:59PM. The application should be submitted to the CML Awards Committee by email at cml@citizensformarylandlibraries.org Projects must be completed within one year after the grant is awarded.