3M Grants $1.5 Million in Security Products to Help School Libraries

3M has awarded 100 middle and high schools in the United States a total of $1.5 million worth of security technology through the 2005 3M Salute to Schools program.

The Salute to Schools program awards 3M detection systems to help middle and high school library media centers with limited resources. 3M detection systems provide the highest level of security available to reduce the loss of valuable library materials. The 100 recipients of this year's grants will receive up to two detection systems for the entrance/exit of their media centers, materials-processing accessories and a supply of Tattle-Tape security strips from 3M to mark print materials - a grant with an average value of about $15,000.

3M Salute to Schools is sponsored by 3M in partnership with the American Association of School Librarians (AASL), a division of the American Library Association. The program reflects 3M's strong support for education and technology, and AASL's dedication to library programs that support the teaching and learning environment. Since the program began six years ago, 3M has donated $8.5 million worth of its detection systems to nearly 600 schools selected by AASL.

The 3M Salute to Schools program is made up of cash and in-kind gifts made by 3M and the 3M Foundation, and is bolstered by employee and retiree volunteerism.