Creative Expressions of Literacy
By Sarah Hall
A core goal of our work at CLiF is to increase kids’ enthusiasm for reading and writing. The best way to do that? Make it fun.
CLiF’s Literacy Enrichment Grant supports project-based and experiential learning opportunities that bring literacy to life. Designed as a flexible funding option, the grant provides up to $1,000 to help our partners turn creative ideas into engaging, hands-on experiences.
What does that look like in practice? Here’s a glimpse at what our Spring 2026 Literacy Enrichment Grant partners have planned:
Bethlehem Elementary School, Bethlehem, NH
A school-wide reading initiative inspired by local resident Renée Blacken’s remarkable 3,200-mile rowing journey across the Atlantic Ocean.
Lincoln Public Library, Lincoln, NH
A family tree poster workshop for ages 3–18, helping participants explore their family histories while developing personal narratives.
Philbrick-James Library, Deerfield, NH
New felt activity sets from Rally Felt Co, paired with a performance by local music therapist Miss Julieann.
Bennington Free Library, Bennington, VT
A two-part outdoor series for families with children ages 0–6, using the library’s pollinator garden to explore early literacy through an environmental lens.
Lyric Theatre Company, South Burlington, VT
Their annual Theatre for Young Audiences production, performed free at community venues to remove barriers of cost and geography. This year’s show, Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!, runs June 25–28.
Manchester Community Library, Manchester, VT
Chick Days at MCL! From May 9–30, an incubator with 12 fertilized eggs will be on display alongside books and programming. Families can join four Saturday workshops to explore egg science and help care for the chicks, culminating in meeting the hatchlings.
Walden Community Library, Walden, VT
An evening event for families at the local elementary school with children ages 0–14, featuring literacy stations, a poetry corner, a nonfiction discovery zone, and an early literacy play area. Each child will take home a new book and related materials.
Wells Village Library, Wells, VT
In partnership with VINS, a week-long program focused on raptors—especially eagles—connecting literacy with Earth Day and the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.