NEW GLOUCESTER — Alice James Books, an independent poetry publisher, has been approved by the National Endowment for the Arts for a Grants for Arts Projects award of $45,000.

The NEA will award 958 Grants for Arts Projects awards totaling more than $27.1 million, announced as part of its first round of fiscal year 2024 grants.

“The NEA is delighted to announce this grant to Alice James Books, which is helping contribute to the strength and well-being of the arts sector and local community,” said National Endowment for the Arts Chair Maria Rosario Jackson. “We are pleased to be able to support this community and help create an environment where all people have the opportunity to live artful lives,” according to a news release from the nonprofit organization.

The press currently publishes an average of eight books a year and maintains a list of over 250 titles. In addition, the press helps its writers achieve purposeful engagement with a broad audience and communities.

These grant funds will support the ebook and print publication, distribution, and promotion of new works of poetry. Scheduled 2024 authors include Sarah Ghazal Ali, Omotara James, Jean Valentine, Kevin Goodan, Donald Revell, Joshua Jennifer Espinoza, Joan Larkin, Ayokunle Falomo, Alessandra Lynch, Alicia Ostriker, and Duy Doan.

Check out other upcoming area events!