(May 9, 2025) Two Rochester City School District schools are among 220 nationwide selected to receive $5,000 library grants from the Laura Bush Foundation for America’s Libraries. The 2025 cycle awarded over $1 million in grants to schools in 38 states.
Abelard Reynolds School No. 42 and World of Inquiry School No. 58 will use the funding to update and diversify their library collections.
“Books have the power to spark curiosity and inspire lifelong learning. 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,” said Mrs. Laura Bush, former First Lady.
“This grant helps us put stories in front of our students that reflect who they are and inspire them to read more,” said Dr. Demario Strickland, Interim Superintendent of Schools. “We are grateful to the Laura Bush Foundation for their continued support and for helping us make our libraries places where all students feel seen, heard, and excited to learn.”
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.
The list features 16 books, including I Loved You First, written by Jenna Bush Hager and Barbara Pierce Bush. It also features First Ladies Make History, authored by mother/daughter duo Anita McBride, Mrs. Bush’s former Chief of Staff when she was First Lady, and Giovanna McBride. Inspired by the Laura Bush Foundation, the McBrides 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 with the goal of encouraging all students to develop a love of reading and learning. Since its inception in 2002, it has awarded $23 million to over 4,000 schools across the country.
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About the George W. Bush Institute
The George W. Bush Institute is a solution-oriented, nonpartisan policy organization focused on ensuring opportunity for all, strengthening democracy, and advancing free societies. Housed within the George W. Bush Presidential Center, the Bush Institute is rooted in compassionate conservative values and committed to creating positive, meaningful, and lasting change at home and abroad. We utilize our unique platform and convening power to advance solutions to national and global issues of the day. Learn more at www.bushcenter.org.
