Twelve family literacy projects from around the country will receive support as part of “Reading Powers the Mind,” a new program at the Library of Congress’ Center for the Book.

The projects, which involve partnerships developed between local libraries and state and community organizations, come from both the public and private sector.

Libraries and many of their participating partners will take part in a “Reading Powers the Mind” workshop July 21-23 at the Library. The workshop will include representatives from government agencies and nonprofit organizations devoted to family literacy issues.

“Reading Powers the Mind” will test several types of partnerships between libraries, community organizations and state Center for the Book locations, which could be replicated in different communities.

For more information on “Reading Powers the Mind” or the Center for the Book, see www.loc.gov.

Mary Pickford Theater Reopens for Films

The Library of Congress’ Mary Pickford Theater — located in the James Madison Building — is open after six months of renovations and again is showing films from the Library’s vast collection.

The theater now offers greater accessibility for patrons with disabilities and also has new seats and new carpet. The Pickford’s free films have resumed with a series to coincide with the Library exhibition “With an Even Hand: Brown v. Board at Fifty.”

All programs are free, but seating is limited. Reservations can be made by calling (202) 707-5677. For a complete list of programs at the Pickford Theater, see www.loc.gov/rr/mopic/pickford/pickford-current.html.

— Amy Carlile