October 21, 2014

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

IMLS Press Contact
202-653-4799
Giuliana Bullard, gbullard@imls.gov

$2.2 Billion Reasons to Pay Attention to WIOA

ALA, Depts. of Ed. and Labor, IMLS to host webinar on workforce funding

Washington, DC—On October 27, 2014, the American Library Association will host “$2.2 Billion Reasons to Pay Attention to WIOA,” an interactive webinar that will explore ways that public and community college libraries can receive funding for employment skills training and job search assistance from the recently-passed Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. The no-cost webinar, which includes speakers from the U.S. Departments of Education and Labor, ALA and the Institute of Museum and Library Services takes place Oct 27, 2014, from 2:00–3:00 p.m. EDT.

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act allows public and community college libraries to be considered additional One-Stop partners. It also authorizes adult education and literacy activities provided by public and community college libraries as an allowable statewide employment and training activity. Additionally, the law defines digital literacy skills as a workforce preparation activity.

Speakers include:

  • Moderator: Sari Feldman, president-elect, American Library Association and executive director, Cuyahoga County Public Library
  • Susan H. Hildreth, director, Institute of Museum and Library Services
  • Heidi Silver-Pacuilla, team leader, Applied Innovation and Improvement, Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education, U.S. Department of Education
  • Kimberly Vitelli, chief of Division of National Programs, Employment and Training Administration, U.S. Department of Labor

Register now, as space is limited. The webinar will be archived and emailed to subscribers of the District Dispatch, ALA’s policy blog.

About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s 123,000 libraries and 35,000 museums. Our mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. Our grant making, policy development, and research help libraries and museums deliver valuable services that make it possible for communities and individuals to thrive. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.