Today, Mapleton Elementary School was one of 220 schools from 38 states across the country 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 over $1 million in library grants.

 

Many of the libraries will use the funds to update and diversify their collections.

 

"Libraries help open doors far beyond the classroom, giving children the resources they need to dream, explore, and be bold,” said Mrs. Bush. “When we support school libraries, we are encouraging students to be strong readers and lifelong learners.”

  

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 2026 summer reading list was revealed. The list features 17 books, which will all fall into one of three themes, “Freedom to Be Bold,” “Freedom to Dream,” and “Freedom to Explore”. This annual collection includes recommendations for young readers through middle schoolers. 

 

“This year’s summer reading list celebrates America’s 250th birthday with themes for children of all ages. I hope parents and grandparents will cherish the time spent reading these titles together as a family. Summer is the perfect season to slow down, snuggle up with a good book, and rediscover the joy of reading.” Mrs. Bush said.

  

The next round of library grant applications for the 2026-2027 school year will open in late 2026. Visit bushcenter.org/laurabushfoundationwebsite of 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 $24 million to over 4,200 schools across the country.  

 

The George W. Bush Institute houses the Laura Bush Foundation for America’s Libraries. 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/laurabushfoundationwebsite of bushcenter.org/laurabushfoundation and www.bushcenter.orgwebsite of www.bushcenter.org.

 

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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.orgwebsite of www.bushcenter.org.