Grants Information – Metro Detroit Book and Author Society

Dick Johnston Award

This award is presented at the annual fall luncheon to a public library for the purpose of establishing or improving a library collection.

The award was established to honor the late Dick Johnston, who was a member of the Metro-Detroit Book & Author Society and served as its president in 1980 and 1981. Mr. Johnston was president of the Michigan Library Association and Director of the Birmingham and Bloomfield Township Libraries.

Elaine R. Irvin Friends Award

This award is presented at the annual fall luncheon to a Friends of the Library group. The grant is awarded to support a program or project which fills a significant need that impacts the library’s patrons and the community.

The award was established to honor the late Elaine R. Irvin, who was a devoted member of the Metro-Detroit Book & Author Society Board for many years. Elaine worked for the Friends of the Detroit Public Library and was dedicated to the principle that “good libraries need good Friends”.

James C. Dance Award for the Arts

This award is presented at the annual spring luncheon to a public or academic library. The award is for establishing or improving an arts book collection, or for establishing and/or expanding a program which advances or celebrates any of the arts.

The award was established to honor the late James C. Dance, who was one of the founders of the Metro-Detroit Book & Author Society, and who served as its Master of Ceremonies for 19 luncheons. Mr. Dance was the public relations coordinator of the Detroit Public Library.

Mary J. Ritter Literacy Award

This award is presented at the annual spring luncheon to assist in the support of an organization that promotes literacy. The award was established to honor the late Mary J. Ritter. Mrs. Ritter was a founder of the Metro-Detroit Book and Author Society and an organizer of the first luncheon in 1972. She was an unwavering supporter of the Society for 40 years and a past president.