Museum Grants for African American History and Culture:  In the October 21, 2009 Federal Register the Institute of Museum and Library Services announced the availability of funding for the for the Museum Grants for African American History and Culture program (Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance number 45.309). The purpose of this program is to supports projects that enhance institutional capacity and sustainability in the nation’s African American museums through professional training, technical assistance, internships, outside expertise, and other important tools. Successful applications will focus on one or more of the following goals: Developing or strengthening knowledge, skills, and other expertise of current staff at African American Museums; Attracting and retaining professionals with the skills needed to strengthen African American museums; Attracting new staff to African American museum practice and providing them with the expertise needed to sustain them in the museum field. The application deadline is January 15, 2010. Eligible applicants include museums whose primary purpose is African American life, art, history, and/or culture, encompassing the period of slavery; the era of reconstruction; the Harlem Renaissance; the civil rights movement; and other periods of the African Diaspora. Public or private nonprofit organizations whose primary purpose is to support museums identified above may also apply. Historically Black Colleges or Universities are also eligible. To request an application package, visit http://www.imls.gov/applicants/grants/AfricanAmerican.shtm. For further information, contact Christopher J. Reich, Senior Program Officer, 202/653-4685, creich@imls.gov.