IMLS grant funds are available until July 10, 2024 to cover the cost of text messages for new TALK subscribers anywhere in the United States. These funds are available on a first come, first served basis to individual public libraries, co-ops, groups of libraries, and state-level implementations. Please note that grant funds do not cover the subscription price, which is calculated based on service population. Subscription discounts apply for MCLS members, and for co-op/group/state implementations.

Text and Learn for Kindergarten (TALK) is an early learning text messaging service created by librarians for libraries. Based on the ALSC/PLA “Every Child Ready to Read” program, TALK is provided at no cost to caregivers of children ages 5 and under. Available in English and Spanish, it helps public libraries connect with underserved parents and caregivers, encourages caregiver-child interactions to support early learning, and suggests easy activities appropriate to a child’s development level that help prepare them for school success. In addition, subscribing public libraries can also use TALK to promote their own programs for young children. The service comes with multiple toolkits for promotion, partnership building, getting started, and more, plus a web-based account portal and support provided by MCLS.

To receive IMLS grant funded texts, your must subscribe to TALK: Text and Learn for Kindergarten, a service of MCLS, no later than Wednesday, July 10, 2024. Please fill out this no-obligation quote request for details.

If you would like a demonstration of TALK or need to discuss billing options that align with your fiscal year, please email talkhelp@mcls.org.