Periodical Marketers of Canada (PMC), in partnership with First Nation Communities Read, announced the inauguration of a significant new book award, the Aboriginal Literature Award. The annual award of $5,000 is provided through a funding commitment from PMC’s Foundation for the Advancement of Canadian Letters (FACL).

First Nation Communities Read, a program of the First Nations public library community in Ontario, promotes Aboriginal literacy, and increases national and international awareness of the availability, importance, and relevance of Aboriginal literature. The launch of the Aboriginal Literature Award coincides with the tenth anniversary of First Nations Community Read program to recognize creators of Aboriginal literature.

First Nation Communities Read focuses in alternate years on Aboriginal literature for adults and young adults, and Aboriginal literature for children. The current (2013-2014) selection is Indian Horse by Richard Wagamese. The 2014-2015 selection will be a children’s title.

The 2014-15 title selection will be announced in May, timed to encourage Aboriginal literature displays and programming during National Aboriginal History Month and National Aboriginal Day celebrations in June, when the first Aboriginal Literature Award will be presented.

On behalf of the members of Periodical Marketers of Canada, PMC Executive Director Ray Argyle said: “All of us at PMC feel privileged to fund this award which recognizes the work of the creators of outstanding Aboriginal literature and supports the objectives of our Foundation for the Advancement of Canadian Letters.”

Speaking on behalf of First Nation Communities Read, Karen Foster, juror and librarian at Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation Public Library, added: “A funded award has been a longtime goal for us. This new partnership with Periodical Marketers of Canada is a wonderful 10th anniversary achievement. We look forward to beginning First Nation Communities Read’s second decade with an enhanced program and the additional program stature PMC’s endorsement provides.”