The SELCO Legacy team is proud to announce 3 new and additional performers to the SELCO vetted catalog.
Katie Knutson is a professional storyteller and teaching artist. She has 4 story telling programs for children as well as a workshop for librarians. All of her shows are customizable and she's happy to work with you to bring the best performance to your library.
Laura MacKenzie has studied music on both sides of the Atlantic and has been recognized as a master folk artist. Laura performs and teaches an array of wind-powered instruments: wooden flutes, whistles, pipes, horns, and many more. Laura has several shows available to our region.
Norm Barnhart has presented comedy and magic full time across Minnesota, Wisconsin and in all fifty states. He has offered to bring his entertainment and teach his workshops. He performs for all ages and tailors his show for your needs.
Please see the Vetted Catalog for further details to book these and all our other great performers:
We are also happy to announce that libraries are now able to request up to *4* vetted performances for the 2013 fiscal year.
As most people were trying to keep warm in the subfreezing temperatures, I spent the evening dancing with “Uncle Mike” in Mable at the Mabel-Canton elementary school. Mike entertained nearly 50 people with his polka tunes and inspired words about books.
Pizza was served after the show, but to the surprise and delight of the parents and library staff, most of the kids wanted to know more about Uncle Mike and wanted to go up to the library to check out the books he suggested right then (at 7 pm at night)… instead of eating the pizza.
All in all, a great time was had by everyone and I am looking forward to my next Pint Sized Polka outing.
Jack Pearson has been pleasing crowds for over 30 years and he didn't disappoint this afternoon in Kasson. His energy was contagious as he performed his song and dance routines. Even the cool kids were caught up in the moment, clapping their hands and tapping their feet to the infectious music. I was particularly impressed with the way he endorses reading with every song or story he tells. A lot of his music was based upon his favorite childrens books, which were propped up all around him so he could show each one to his audience.
Never did I expect to see some of the innovative instruments he brought to the show and performed with. Sure, I've seen spoon players and jaw harps played before, but I've never seen an amp'ed toy-box lid and sand paper slippers before.
Jack's performance was a real treat and a great way to finish up any summer reading program. I suggest any school or public library to contact Jack and help spread the love of reading to your group of young readers and soon-to-be readers.
I attended the Hans Mayer music spectacular at the Leroy Community Center on Wednesday. It was great program in a cool building on a hot day. Hans performed several well known and original songs. Including the Nyah, Nyah, song that has over 200 verses (he didn't perform them all, but they are on the website). Hans played a reading themed version of Apples and Bananas to go along with the library sponsored event. He also played a few songs that involved audience participation including Monsters, where the audience repeated several lines such as you can't fool me, and little actors mimed the actions to Solar Energy. Hans also brought out several different instruments beyond the standard guitar, the children had fun trying to guess what the mandolin was, but my favorite was a beautifully hand crafted flute that Hans used to mimic the sounds of a Loon call. You could close your eyes and picture you were on a lake up north. The children left the performance happy and having enjoyed their day through music, and all were appreciative of Library Director Rhonda Barnes and SELCO for making this event happen.
Tyler Irvin, Regional Librarian
| Yesterday I had the opportunity to head over to the Rochester Public Library to witness a workshop presented by the Great River Shakespeare Festival titled "they fight: Stage Combat." At the beginning and then at the end again, the presenter, Doug, showcased a number of stage-use weapons such as swords and daggers. However, the majority of the workshop focused on unarmed stage combat. The group, which mostly consisted of teens, began by performing some warm ups in the form of yoga so as not to sprain anything while either delivering or receiving a blow. After that, they paired off and under Doug's careful instruction began the process of learning how to perform a stage slap. They learned the basics of stage (which way the actors need to face to make it look realistic), how to make the accompanying sound effect without physical contact, and basic safety such as practice in slow motion, maintaining eye contact, and keeping a safe space of about six inches between each other. All of the pairs were quite enthuastic about theprogram and had their own best qualities. One group was particularly good at the sound effects, while another would be improvise next steps until the program progressed. think the program went surprisingly well and would like to see other libraries take adavantage of this great program. |  |
For additional pictures of the event, be sure to check out the SELCO Flickr set.
Tyler Irvin, Regional Librarian
I am pleased to announce that SELCO has added four new performers to the Vetted Programs catalog. Jack Pearson, Ross Sutter, WonderWeavers, and the Rephile & Amphibian Discovery Zoo have joined our list of reputable, reliable artists available for booking with Legacy funding.
Also, we are now allowing booking of events in Fiscal Year 2013 which means July 1, 2012 through August 15, 2013. Again this year, we are limiting it to two bookings per library for that time period at least initially.
Just as a reminder, we still have funding available for vetted programs for this fiscal year (ending June 30) and the limit is now 3 per library. Libraries are also eligible for 1 vetted program from the Statewide initiative which features the Minnesota Historical Society and local history museums.
If you have any questions about these or other Legacy program offerings, feel free to contact me.
Tyler Irvin, Regional Librarian
SELCO/SELS member libraries were originally limited to two Vetted Programs for this fiscal year (which ends June 30). When the announcement went out, there was a brief notice that if funds remained in the program SELCO would raise the limit later in the year. The SELCO Legacy Review Committee has graciously transferred some funds from Community Collaboration grants to the Vetted Programs and with these additional funds, SELCO is comfortable allowing each library to apply for up to three programs for this fiscal year.
To recap, if a library has applied for two Vetted Programs already, it may now apply for one more. If a library hasn’t applied for any Vetted Programs, it may still apply for up to three. This is only for programs up to June 30; another announcement about programs taking place after that date will be forthcoming within the next two weeks. And remember, these programs are granted on a first come, first serve basis until the fund runs out.
Tyler Irvin, Regional Librarian
| This morning I had the opportunity to see Rochester-based storyteller Kevin Strauss perform at Pine Island Public Schools. He presented his program MinneStories to an attentive 6th Grade audience as part of SELCO's Vetted Programs offerings. The presentation detailed a wide variety of folktales from the different eras and immigrant groups of Minnesota. He started out with tales of Ojibwe and then moved into the French fur traders with lots of detail given to their lives and the song "Aloutte." Other immigrant groups included the English, Scandinavian, and Latin Americans. He also covered Minnesota history such as the Dakota Indian War, the Jesse James bank robbery in Northfield, and the creation of Fort Snelling. Overall, a very entertaining and educational program! For more photos of this program be sure to check out the SELCO Flickr set. |
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Tyler Irvin, Regional Librarian
| This past Saturday, author, illustrator, naturalist, and musician Douglas Wood presented two programs at the Rochester Public Library as part of SELCO's Legacy Vetted Programs offerings. The morning program featured Doug singing songs and telling stories from his children's books and concluded with a little 2 year old leaping up to hug his leg. The afternoon program was quieter as Doug presented on the writing and publishing processes. For more pictures of this event, be sure to check out the SELCO Flickr set. |
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Tyler Irvin, Regional Librarian
| LeRoy-Ostrander Public Schools hosted the first Vetted Program of this fiscal year yesterday. Rhonda Barnes of the school library (and also of the public one!) arranged for Uncle Mike from Pint Size Polkas to come down and provide a lyceum for many of the school's students. He presented two programs back-to-back, the first one for K-3 and autism students and the second was for grades 4 and 5. Mike not only played various polkas for the students' enjoyment, he added in educational components. Between songs there were math programs, geography challenges, and numerous quick lessons on polka and its many styles. He changed up the program and the questions for the older students and even I learned a few things while attending. There were a few songs that I had heard in passing over the years that he identified as famous polkas which I had never even realized were polkas. True to form, Rhonda not only managed to accomplish all that we ask of our grant recipients but also managed to pull in two newspapers to run articles on the program! Look for them in the Rochester Post-Bulletin and the LeRoy Independent. For more pictures from the event, be sure to check out the Flickr set. |
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Tyler Irvin, Regional Librarian
There has been some confusion on school libraries applying for Legacy grants. First, let me state that the Vetted Programs both statewide and those SELCO provide do allow for the eligibility of school libraries if they are SELS members. However, as the mapping of school libraries to district or even media specialists is difficult, SELCO would like to clarify on the limit for vetted programs for schools. Each school district is eligible for 2 SELCO Vetted Programs and 1 Statewide vetted program as the district is the organization applying. Please bear this in mind when applying especially if there are multiple school librarians in your district.
UPDATE: I forgot to mention that a performer may present their show multiple times on the same day in the district and will still only count as one grant.
Tyler Irvin, Regional Librarian
I am happy to announce that SELCO has received a majority of contracts back from our Vetted Performers and feels comfortable opening the Vetted Performers program for applications at this time. As the catalog has not been revised (except for one Great River Shakespeare Festival program) copies sent out to libraries on Delivery shortly before the program closed in the spring, I will not be sending out print versions of the catalog at this time unless specifically requested. For more details, be sure to check out the Vetted Programs space. There you will find the online version of the catalog and links to the application form and supporting documents.
Libraries are currently limited to 3 applications for this fiscal year (ending June 30, 2013). The three programs can be from any of the Vetted catalogs (SELCO, MHS, or Minnesota Alliance), in any combination.
About SELCO Vetted Programs
SELCO's Vetted Programs have been designed for the benefit of our member libraries with less staff time to dedicate to individual programming plans. Each of the Vetted Artists have been contracted to provide SELCO libraries with a variety of program offerings, suitable for both children and adult audiences. In hosting a SELCO Vetted Program, your library will be provided with outcome measurement tools necessary to hold a successful event. Best of all, the billing is handled directly by SELCO! The application process is simple and applications will be reviewed weekly by SELCO staff for quick turnover.
Step 1: Choose a Vetted Performer and program.
Step 2: Contact the Vetted Performer to discuss your scheduling needs and agree to a tentative date or dates. Remember to mention this is for a SELCO Vetted Program.
Step 3: Fill out the online application.
Step 4: Confirm the details of your event with the Vetted Performer and SELCO staff.
Step 5: Host your event making sure to follow the outcome evaluation instructions sent to you by SELCO staff.
Step 6: Report on your Vetted Program by filling out the final report and submitting any supplemental materials detailed in both the application and the final report.
About Statewide Legacy Programming
SELCO has agreed to participate in statewide Library Legacy programming this fiscal year. Programming is still being finalized.
Statewide Vetted
One of the programs that will be available throughout the state is a collection of vetted programs offered by the Minnesota Historical Society - Spring and Summer catalog and the Minnesota Historical Society - History Players catalog. SELCO will handle booking while member libraries are responsible for administering and reporting the results of a survey.
The current statewide catalog is for performances in September 2012 through February 2013. We hope to have March 2013 through August 2013 plan this late fall for you to begin planning your spring and summer statewide programs.
Statewide programs are not pre-arranged with the performers and therefore different steps are taken for the application process.
Step 1: Choose a Vetted Performer and program.
Step 2: Fill out the online application and list your top 3 choices for performance dates.
Step 3: Upon approval of the application, SELCO will verify arrangements for the performer.
Step 4: If one of the selected dates in the application is acceptable to the performer, SELCO will confirm the date of the performance. If the three dates are not acceptable, SELCO will contact the applicant and try to find a better date that works for everyone.
Step 5: Host your event making sure to follow the outcome evaluation instructions sent to you by SELCO staff.
Step 6: Report on your Statewide Program by filling out the final report and submitting any supplemental materials detailed in both the application and the final report.
How to apply for a Vetted Program
Applications for Vetted Programs have no set deadline, as they are reviewed regularly by SELCO staff. You need to give SELCO staff adequate time to process and review your application, so a minimum of one month lead time is recommended. When submitting online, you will receive an email confirmation to the address used to fill out the application. This email confirmation will be sent automatically by the system after your application has been submitted. If you do not receive an email confirmation, please contact SELCO immediately as your application may not have been received.
As Legacy works on the State Fiscal Year, programs may only be scheduled on or before August 15, 2013 at this time.
Libraries are currently limited to 3 applications for this fiscal year (ending June 30, 2013). The three programs can be from any of the Vetted catalogs (SELCO, MHS, or Minnesota Alliance), in any combination.
Please make sure to thoroughly read all instructions before submitting your application
Application Instructions
Application Form
- SELCO recommends using Internet Explorer when using the online form. Some users have reported printing errors when using Firefox.
- If you have any questions regarding Vetted Programs or the application process, please contact legacy@selco.info.
SELCO Performer List
Complete .PDF version of the Catalog
SELCO's Vetted Performers for 2012-2013 are:
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C. Willi Myles Storyteller & Comedian, C. Willi Myles has the gift of connecting people with each other through humor and stories. After graduating high school in Alabama, Willi moved to Minnesota to attend college on a football scholarship at St. Cloud State University. After college, Willi started coaching at St. Cloud State and traveling throughout the country scouting talent. Now referred to as “America’s Everyday Comedian,” C. Willi Myles makes his home in Minnesota and his style of comedy is best described as observational humor and storytelling. For more information and program listing, check out his page of the Catalog. For more information on what is expected of the library, check out the Outcome Evaluation Guide and the Checklist. |
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Douglas Wood Author, illustrator, musician, composer, naturalist, wilderness guide… it is hard to pin a label on Douglas Wood. Many know him best from his classic children’s books like “Old Turtle” and “Granddad's Prayers of the Earth;” others from CD’s or concerts or keynote presentations around the country. What connects it all is a passion to communicate in words and music the wonder and mystery to be found in the natural world and in the human story. For more information and program listing, check out his page of the Catalog. For more information on what is expected of the library, check out the Outcome Evaluation Guide and the Checklist. |
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Great River Shakespeare Festival The Great River Shakespeare Festival produces thoughtful, articulate, engaging productions of Shakespeare's plays in an annual summer festival in Winona, Minnesota. For more information and program listing, check out their page of the Catalog. For more information on what is expected of the library, check out the Outcome Evaluation Guide and the Checklist. |
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Hans Mayer Hans Mayer plays infectious, catchy, acoustic based original music with a slice of bluegrass, a tinge of reggae and a little bit of swing. People of all ages are immediately attracted to his playful personality and his true-to-family-life songs. His award-winning albums for families are hits with kids, parents, teachers and grandparents. For more information, check out his page of the Catalog. For more information on what is expected of the library, check out the Outcome Evaluation Guide and the Checklist. |
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In the Heart of the Beast Since 1973, In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre has been using water, flour, newspaper, paint, and unlimited imagination to tell stories that explore the struggles and celebrations of human existence. Drawing inspiration from the world's traditions of puppet and mask theatre and its lively roots in transformative ritual and street theatre, HOBT creates vital, poetic theater for all ages and backgrounds. For more information and program listing, check out their page of the Catalog. For more information on what is expected of the library, check out the Outcome Evaluation Guide and the Checklist. |
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Jack Pearson Jack Pearson has been blending songs and stories professionally for over thirty years. He plays guitar, banjo, and host of little instruments with one foot in our fold tradition and the other lost in the world of reading and imagination. For more information and program listing, check out his page of the Catalog. For more information on what is expected of the library, check out the Outcome Evaluation Guide and the Checklist. |
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Katie Knutson Katie Knutson is a professional storyteller and teaching artist. Katie spends her days working in schools using drama and storytelling to teach early literacy skills, writing, storytelling, science, character education, digital storytelling, and teamwork. She has 4 story telling programs for children as well as a workshop for librarians. Katie is happy to customize all of her shows for you to bring the best performance to your library. For more information and program listing, check out her page of the Catalog. For more information on what is expected of the library, check out the Outcome Evaluation Guide and the Checklist. |
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Kevin Strauss Award-winning Author and Storyteller Kevin Strauss has been using stories to entertain, educate and inspire children and adults for more than a decade. Based in Rochester, Minnesota, Kevin travels across the Midwest to perform at schools, libraries, preschools and community events. For more information and program listing, check out his page of the Catalog. For more information on what is expected of the library, check out the Outcome Evaluation Guide and the Checklist. |
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Laura MacKenzie Laura MacKenzie has studied music on both sides of the Atlantic and has been recognized as a master folk artist. Laura performs and teaches an array of wind-powered instruments: wooden flutes, whistles, pipes, horns, and many more. For more information and program listing, check out her page of the Catalog. For more information on what is expected of the library, check out the Outcome Evaluation Guide and the Checklist. |
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Lou & Peter Berryman Lou and Peter Berryman are musical humorists who have delighted nationwide audiences for more than thirty years. Frequent comparisons to Tom Lehrer, Flanders and Swann, and Burns and Allen notwithstanding, these two are originals. They have produced seventeen albums and four songbooks of their often hilarious, quirky, yet oddly profound songs, and have toured the US and Canada to rave reviews. Berryman songs are sung around the world by a legion of professional musicians, including Peter, Paul & Mary, Peggy Seeger, and Garrison Keillor, as well as shower singers everywhere. For more information, check out their page of the Catalog. For more information on what is expected of the library, check out the Outcome Evaluation Guide and the Checklist. |
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Mehndi Moon Practicing the ancient art of Henna for the last 13 years, Judy Ostrowski of Mehndi Moon Henna Body Art specializes in intuitive designs as well as traditional designs from many cultures. She is available for parties, events, and also teaches classes to pass on the joy that Henna brings. For more information, check out her page of the Catalog. For more information on what is expected of the library, check out the Outcome Evaluation Guide and the Checklist. |
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Norm Barnhart For over 28 years, Norm Barnhart has presented comedy and magic full time across Minnesota, Wisconsin and in all fifty states. He performs for all ages and tailors his show for your needs. He is also a motivational speaker that can inspire all ages as well from elementary school kids to corporate retreats for large corporations. For more information, check out his page of the Catalog. For more information on what is expected of the library, check out the Outcome Evaluation Guide and the Checklist. |
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Pint Size Polkas Join Uncle Mike as he performs his entertaining and educational polka-packed program! The fun of polka music is reinforced by educational and humorous video segments on the history of lumberjacking, polka dancing, an overview of the accordion, and additional topics. For more information, check out his page of the Catalog. For more information on what is expected of the library, check out the Outcome Evaluation Guide and the Checklist. |
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Pop Wagner Pop has quite the reputation as a singer, picker, fiddler, lasso twirler, poet and downright funny guy. He appeared quite frequently on Public Radio's A Prairie Home Companion during the show's formative years and for the last four decades he has worked his cowboy magic throughout 44 states and ten countries. For more information, check out his page of the Catalog. For more information on what is expected of the library, check out the Outcome Evaluation Guide and the Checklist. |
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RAD Zoo The Reptile & Amphibian Discovery Zoo is already one of the Midwest’s largest reptile displays, and an opportunity for a fun family adventure. Marvel at the amazing creatures of the reptile and amphibian world including snakes, turtles, lizards, crocodilians, toads, frogs, and salamanders. For more information, check out their page of the Catalog. For more information on what is expected of the library, check out the Outcome Evaluation Guide and the Checklist. |
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The Rose Ensemble Experience rarely heard music from the world's manuscript libraries, revitalized with joy and spirit. The Rose Ensemble reawakens the ancient with vocal music that stirs the emotions, challenges the mind and lifts the spirit. Now in its Fifteenth Anniversary Season, the St. Paul-based group tours internationally with repertoire spanning 1,000 years and 25 languages. For more information and program listing, check out their page of the Catalog. For more information on what is expected of the library, check out the Outcome Evaluation Guide and the Checklist. |
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Ross Sutter Ross Sutter loves to sing American and northern European songs for children. He plays an array of folk instruments---guitar, bodhran, button accordion, limberjack, and dulcimer. He has performed on radio, television and at festivals, and works regularly in schools teaching the songs and folk dances that he has collected over the years. His rapport with children is extraordinary, but he also possesses the unique ability to thoroughly entertain the parents and adults in the audience as well. For more information, check out his page of the Catalog. For more information on what is expected of the library, check out the Outcome Evaluation Guide and the Checklist. |
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Salsabrosa Minnesota’s most energetic and authentic Latin/Salsa band and dance group is a great addition to your Legacy Program schedule. Salsabrosa, led by two Cuban natives, offers a program combining education, storytelling, and performance that discusses and showcases the impact of Latin music and dance styles in the upper Midwest. The program incorporates authentic Latin music and demonstrates the unique instruments and rhythms associated with Salsa, Merengue, Cha Cha Cha, and more. In addition, Salsabrosa’s dancers share the rhythms of today’s Latin Music through dance. This group represents a powerful celebration of the marvelously diverse communities within Minnesota and will help in building greater understanding and connection to the values that bind Minnesotans together by using the universal languages of music and dance. For more information and program listing, check out their page of the Catalog. For more information on what is expected of the library, check out the Outcome Evaluation Guide and the Checklist. |
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Star Michaelina Educational magician Star Michaelina has been wowing audiences for over 15 years. At libraries she gets kids excited about reading by combining her high energy, interactive magic show with tricks involving books and the importance of reading. Her goofy personality and colorful props appeal to even the youngest child while her contemporary look and mind boggling tricks appeal to the older kids in the audience. For more information, check out her page of the Catalog. For more information on what is expected of the library, check out the Outcome Evaluation Guide and the Checklist. |
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A Touch of Magic Founded in 1986, A Touch of Magic, Inc. is located in St. Paul, Minnesota, with entertainers/artists who are nationally renown, in addition to being local favorites. They specialize in top-notch, age-appropriate entertainment for ages 2-92. For more information and program listing, check out their page of the Catalog. For more information on what is expected of the library, check out the Outcome Evaluation Guide and the Checklist. |
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WonderWeavers Tina and Colleen are award winning professional storytellers who are celebrating 15 years in business as WonderWeavers Storytellers. They perform, lead workshops and deliver keynote addresses throughout the upper Midwest and beyond. For more information and program listing, check out their page of the Catalog. For more information on what is expected of the library, check out the Outcome Evaluation Guide and the Checklist. |
Program Evaluation
All grant recipients are required to file a Final Report with SELCO upon completion of their program. Evaluation materials are due within 30 days of the program's conclusion. Information submitted via the online form is secure and it may be saved & resumed at a later time if needed. When submitting online, you will receive an email confirmation to the address used to fill out the form. This email confirmation will be sent automatically by the system after your form has been submitted. If you do not receive an email confirmation, please contact SELCO immediately as your form may not have been received. Attachments to your final report may be sent to SELCO via Delivery or submitted electronically to legacy@selco.info.
Please make sure to thoroughly read all instructions before submitting your report
Final Report Instructions
Final Report Form
- SELCO recommends using Internet Explorer when using the online form. Some users have reported printing errors when using Firefox.
- If you need some advice on writing letters to legislators, here are some useful tips.
- If you have any questions regarding Vetted Programs or the evaluation process, please contact legacy@selco.info.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. General Questions
1.1 What is the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund?
1.2 How long will these funds be available?
1.3 Can I charge admission at an ACHF-sponsored event?
1.4 What is the Arts & Cultural Heritage logo and disclaimer?
2. Vetted Programs
2.1 Is my organization eligible for funding?
2.2 When is the deadline for Vetted Program applications?
2.3 When should I submit my application?
2.4 What information is required on the application?
2.5 What happens after I turn in my application?
2.6 Will SELCO book my performer for me?
2.7 What happens after my application is approved?
2.8 What do I do if my application is denied?
2.9 What if I want additional activities, services or items not included in the Vetted Program? Can I apply for additional funding?
2.10 Can I apply for more than one Vetted Program?
2.11 How will my Vetted Performer get paid?
2.12 What if I want someone who is not on the Vetted Performer list? Will your list of Vetted Performers grow or change?
General Questions
1.1 What is the Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund (ACHF)?
The Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund (ACHF) was created by the people of Minnesota to support the arts and preserve our cultural heritage. The Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment was passed overwhelmingly by Minnesota voters in November 2008. This electoral decision created new resources for land conservation, water conservation, parks, and the arts. A portion of these funds has been appropriated to regional library systems to support programs and services at local libraries and to partner with community organizations to enrich the lives of Minnesota residents.
1.2 How long will these funds be available?
Funding for regional library systems via the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund is guaranteed through June 30, 2015. The Minnesota Legislature has the opportunity to revise funding dispersal on a biennial schedule. Funding levels to the specific regional libraries may fluctuate based on the formula used by the State Library.
1.3 Can I charge admission at an ACHF-sponsored event?
No, according to former State Librarian, Suzanne Miller, admission or registration fees should not be charged for any event receiving Library Legacy funding. This decision is based on two philosophical library positions:
1. Traditionally, libraries have offered free programs and are perceived as that "free" source of information and recreation.
2. Library Legacy funds are about creating "access" for those that may not have had access to such events previously, either due to geography or finances.
A free-will offering or "suggested donation" is allowable.
1.4 What is the Arts & Cultural Heritage logo and disclaimer?
All publicity materials for Arts & Cultural Heritage programming must include credit to SELCO, the Library Legacy program, and the Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund (ACHF). Whenever possible you must include the ACHF logo, SELCO/SELS logo, and the Library Legacy logo. These logos can be downloaded from the ACHF Logos page. When it is not possible to use the logos, you must use the phrase: "This project was funded in part or in whole with money from Minnesota's Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund."
Vetted Programs
2.1 Is my organization eligible for funding?
Vetted Programs are only available to SELCO/SELS member libraries.
2.2 When is the deadline for Vetted Program applications?
Vetted Programs have no set deadlines. Applications are reviewed regularly by SELCO staff for quick turnover.
2.3 When should I submit my application?
You need to give SELCO staff adequate time to process and review your application. A minimum of one month lead time is suggested.
2.4 What information is required on the application?
All fields on the application are required. The application requires details about your library such as mailing address and program coordinator, your choice of vetted program, and the date and time you plan on holding the program.
2.5 What happens after I turn in my application?
If submitting via the web-form, you will receive an email confirmation to the address used to fill out the application. This email confirmation will be sent automatically by the system after your application has been submitted. If you do not receive an email confirmation, please contact SELCO immediately as your application may not have been received.
SELCO Staff will review your application within 1-2 weeks of eligibility.
2.6 Will SELCO book my performer for me?
No, all booking and performance details need to be arranged directly between the applicant and the Vetted Performer. Before submitting your Vetted Program Application you must speak with your chosen Vetted Performer to select a tentative date and time. This ensures that you will have an appropriate date confirmed prior to applying for funding and also gives your chosen Vetted Performer the opportunity to inform you of any specific requirements or needs (performance space, electrical outlets, audience size cap, etc.).
2.7 What happens after my application is approved?
You will receive an email from SELCO notifying you that your application has been approved. An Outcomes Evaluation Guide and packet of outcome measurement tools will be sent to you shortly to help get through the evaluation process for your event. Also included is a checklist to help keep you on track with preparation for and hosting of your Vetted Performance.
2.8 What do I do if my application is denied?
If your application is denied, you will be notified in writing. This notification will include detailed comments from SELCO staff as to why the application was denied and, if applicable, suggestions for re-applying.
2.9 What if I want additional activities, services or items not included in the Vetted Program? Can I apply for additional funding?
SELCO sponsorship of Vetted Programs are limited to the performance and travel/lodging costs for your chosen performers. Possible expenses that are not covered by this program include: hall rental, refreshments, advertising costs, etc. If expenses are incurred by the applicant outside of the scope of the Vetted Program agreement, SELCO is under no obligation to cover such costs. If additional costs are necessary to your event, you may apply for a larger grant amount via the Community Collaboration grant program.
2.10 Can I apply for more than one Vetted Program?
Owing to the limited funding the regional library systems received this fiscal biennium, libraries may only apply for 2 Vetted Programs per fiscal year. The fiscal year runs July 1 - June 30. If there there is a significant portion remaining as the year ends, SELCO may allow additional bookings. In FY2012 (July 1, 2011 - June 30, 2012), SELCO allowed for a third program to be booked later in the year.
2.11 How will my Vetted Performer get paid?
All billing for Vetted Programs is covered through the SELCO office. The host library is not responsible for paying Vetted Performers directly; all billing must be submitted to SELCO by the performer for prompt payment. If your library has chosen to add additional services to your event which are not covered by the Vetted Program, you will need to arrange separate billing for those items.
2.12 What if I want someone who is not on the Vetted Performer list? Will your list of Vetted Performers grow or change?
SELCO reserves the right to modify the list of Vetted Performers at any time. New performers are added to the list at SELCO's discretion and only after a thorough committee review. This ensures that the Vetted Programs are of very high artistic caliber. The list of Vetted Performers must also stay at a manageable size so as not to over-encumber SELCO staff. If you would like to hire a performer who is not on the Vetted Performer list, you must apply for funding through the Community Collaboration grant program.
