We are excited to share the recipients of WiLS 2020 Ideas to Action (I2A) funds! We drive forward innovative and collaborative services by supporting these projects, through dollars and project guidance, and fuel libraries to take their projects further.
During this exceptional year, we received a record number of outstanding proposals to the I2A Fund. We could unfortunately choose only seven, but we believe these projects will have the most impact on their communities and on library service in the state.
We are honored to provide the support to move these ideas into action!
Appleton Public Library – The Piano Project: Community Engagement through Music and Art
Appleton Public Library is partnering with local artists and community members to install interactive displays throughout the city that use music to engage the public in a community read while also raising awareness of the Hmong American experience through stories such as “The Latehomecomer” by Kao Kalia Yang.
Dane County Library Service – Ripple Project: Equity Teams
Dane County Library Service is supporting the sustainable development of four regional equity teams throughout Dane County libraries.
Kenosha Public Library – Mind and Body Challenge
Kenosha Public Library is helping keep patrons physically active and entertained while waiting outside the Bookmobile and Book Truck for their turn to board.
Madison Trust for Historic Preservation – Madison Trust Archive Digitization Project
The Madison Trust for Historic Preservation is digitizing their archives and making them accessible to the public through Recollection Wisconsin.
School District of Belleville – Documenting a Historic Time: COVID19 and Opening a New Library….and Beyond!
The School District of Belleville is providing opportunities for school and village community members to record experiences from the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as record segments or interviews to air as podcasts as Belleville opens a new public library in March of 2021.
Sun Prairie Public Library – Story Walks
Sun Prairie Public Library is providing an opportunity for the entire community to engage in literary walks that promote literacy, community and family engagement, physical health, and mental wellbeing.
Tomahawk School District – Making Connections One Game at a Time
The Tomahawk School District is connecting community, schools, teachers, and students in a virtual gaming world, collaborating with Northcentral Technical College to establish a high school eSports team.