IMLS Grants

LSTA Grants is sponsored by South Carolina State Library (IMLS via LSTA). LSTA Grants from the South Carolina State Library, funded through the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) via the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), provide financial support to public libraries and library agencies across South Carolina.

Save America's Treasures (Collections) is a grant from the National Park Service and IMLS, through the Historic Preservation Fund, that funds conservation of nationally significant collections held by museums, libraries, archives, and other collecting institutions. Collections projects support physical conservation, care, and collections management for artifacts, museum objects, documents, sculptures, and other works of art of national significance. A companion Preservation track funds historic buildings and structures. Collections project awards range from $25,000 to $750,000, with a grant period of one to three years. A dollar-for-dollar non-federal cost share — cash or documented in-kind — is required. Properties or collections that previously received a Save America's Treasures grant are not eligible for additional funding. Eligible applicants are U.S. cultural collecting institutions.

Save America's Treasures Grants is sponsored by National Park Service (in partnership with IMLS, NEA, NEH). Supports preservation projects for nationally significant historic properties and projects involving nationally significant collections. This program is divided into two parts: one for preservation projects (properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places for national significance or designated a National Historic Landmark) and one for projects involving collections (artifacts, museum collections, documents, sculptures, and other works of art).

National Leadership Grants for Libraries (focus on AI literacy and civic engagement) is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). IMLS supports projects that position cultural institutions as community hubs for AI education and workforce training. This program supports projects that develop, enhance, or adapt replicable practices, programs, models, or tools to strengthen library and archival services, including those focused on AI literacy and civic engagement.

Museums for America is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The Museums for America (MFA) program invests in museums of all sizes and disciplines in project-based efforts to serve the public through educational programs and exhibits, community partnerships, and collections stewardship activities. The program aims to advance a museum's capacity to serve people of all ages and backgrounds, respond to community needs, and manage and care for collections.

Native Hawaiian Library Services Grant is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The Native Hawaiian Library Services Grant program is designed to assist Native Hawaiian serving organizations in sustaining and improving library services within their communities. These competitive grants are awarded for one to two years and are designed to develop, enhance, or disseminate practices, programs, models, tools, or staff training to strengthen library and archival services.

National Leadership Grants for Libraries Program (NLG-L) is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). This program supports projects that develop, enhance, or adapt replicable practices, programs, models, or tools to strengthen library and archival services for the American public. Projects should serve the learning needs of the public, improve community prosperity, provide broad access to and preservation of information, or provide services to affected communities in the event of an emergency or disaster.

Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program is sponsored by Various Federal Agencies (e.g., SBA, NSF, NIH, DOE, DOD, NASA, NIST, NOAA, USDA, EDA, EPA, HUD, DARPA, IMLS, NEA, NEH). The SBIR program is a highly competitive program that encourages small businesses to explore their technological potential and provides the incentive to profit from its commercialization. It funds research and development (R&D) that has the potential for commercialization.

Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program is sponsored by Various Federal Agencies (e.g., SBA, NSF, NIH, DOE, DOD, NASA, NIST, NOAA, USDA, EDA, EPA, HUD, DARPA, IMLS, NEA, NEH). The STTR program expands funding opportunities in the federal innovation research and development arena. It requires a formal collaboration between a small business and a research institution to develop innovative technologies.

Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Grants to States is the largest source of federal funding for library services in the U.S., distributed by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to State Library Administrative Agencies. In Ohio, the program is administered by the State Library of Ohio. Ohio received $5,448,084 in FY 2024 federal funds, which supports statewide library initiatives and competitive subgrants to public, academic, research, school, and special libraries. Funded projects include electronic database access, computer instruction, summer reading programs, digitization, e-book access, bookmobile service, and outreach to underserved populations. Eligible applicants are libraries in Ohio.

Celebrating Ohio Book Awards & Authors (COBAA) Grant is sponsored by State Library of Ohio (funded by IMLS LSTA). This grant provides federal funds to Ohio libraries to support collection development initiatives with a focus on books and authors pertaining to Ohio. Funds are to be used to purchase titles from a prescribed list to bolster library bookshelves.

National Leadership Grants for Libraries is a grant from Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) that funds projects developing, enhancing, or adapting replicable practices, programs, models, or tools to strengthen library and archival services for the American public. The program supports work across four areas: public learning, community prosperity, broad access to and preservation of information and collections, and emergency/disaster services. Award types include Community-Centered Implementation Grants, National Implementation Grants, Applied Research Grants, Planning Grants, and Forum Grants. Grant periods range from one to three years depending on grant type; requests over $299,999 require at least 1:1 cost share from non-federal sources. Eligible applicants include libraries, museums, archives, and related cultural heritage organizations. The FY 2027 deadline is November 13, 2026.

Museums for Digital Learning is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). This program brings together museums of various disciplines, sizes, and geographic regions to contribute to a shared digital platform offering K-12 educational resource kits developed from museum collections. IMLS supports projects that advance the abilities of libraries and museums to serve early learners in their communities.

Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Grants is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) / Pennsylvania Department of Education's Office of Commonwealth Libraries (OCL). IMLS provides federal LSTA funding to states through its Grants to the States program. In Pennsylvania, the PDE's OCL administers these funds to public, school, academic, and special libraries to support and provide excellent and equitable library services, with strategic goals to connect libraries and library services to the larger Pennsylvania ecosystem. Projects often address lifelong learning, literacy competencies (basic, civic and social, digital, financial, health, STEM), access to digital resources, and professional development for library staff. This also includes support for libraries in rural areas that may be under-resourced.

Promoting AI Literacy (IMLS Grants for AI Literacy) is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). This grant supports American cultural institutions, primarily museums and libraries, in promoting AI literacy to meet evolving global challenges to education, workforce, and economic development. The goal is to prepare patrons to leverage AI tools and champion lifelong learning.

Save America's Treasures Grant Program is a grant from IMLS that Collections Projects (Opportunity #P24AS00545) Preservation Projects (Opportunity #P24AS00544) Collections Projects: $25,000 - $750,000 Preservation Projects: $125,000 - $750,000 Grant Period: One to . Save America's Treasures | Institute of Museum and Library Services Deadline: To be determined. Program Overview: Save America's Treasures is a Historic Preservation Fund grant program administered by the National Park Service in partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the National Endowment for the Humanities. Eligible applicants include Nonprofit organizations, state and local governments, and tribal entities. Awards are $25,000 - $750,000.

National Medal for Museum and Library Service is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The National Medal for Museum and Library Service is the nation's highest honor for institutions that make significant and exceptional contributions to their communities. While not a direct project grant, it recognizes and highlights the impactful work of museums and libraries, which often includes children's literacy initiatives.

Grants to States Program is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The Grants to States program is the largest source of federal funding support for library services in the U.S. Funding is distributed among State Library Administrative Agencies (SLAAs) each year based on a population-based formula. In New York, these funds support early literacy and adult literacy programs, access to high-quality electronic resources, and various statewide programs and services such as "Summer Reading at New York Libraries" and "Ready to Read at New York Libraries".

Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) Youth and Community Programs is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) Youth and Community Programs is a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services that funds public libraries, museums of all types, and tribal organizations to advance public services, professional development, and communi…

Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Grants is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) through State Libraries. LSTA Grants are provided by State Libraries to assist libraries and library-related agencies in developing programs and projects that enhance library services. Each state has its own LSTA Grants, and details are available on the State Libraries' websites.

Direct Grants to Libraries (Library Services and Technology Act - LSTA) is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) through the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC). Using federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funds, the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) develops grant opportunities for public, school, academic, and special libraries.

Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program is sponsored by Multiple federal agencies including Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Defense (DOD), National Science Foundation (NSF), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Department of Agriculture (USDA), Department of the Interior (DOI), Department of Justice (DOJ), Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Economic Development Administration (EDA), National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Supports small businesses, including those led by women, in developing and commercializing innovative technologies.

Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Grants is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) through the Library of North Carolina. LSTA grants support new or expanded library programs and services, as well as limited ongoing projects. These grants are awarded to local libraries through the State Library of North Carolina and can support literacy initiatives, digital access, and increasing access to materials. Examples of supported projects include developing tutoring programs and increasing access to materials through digitization and preservation, and addressing rural childhood literacy gaps.

Native American/Native Hawaiian Museum Services grants is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). These grants support Indian tribes and organizations that primarily serve and represent Native Hawaiians in sustaining heritage, culture, and knowledge through strengthened activities in areas such as exhibitions, educational services and programming, and professional developmen…

Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Grants to States Program is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) / State Library Agencies. This federal program provides funds to state library agencies, which then award subgrants to individual libraries (including school libraries) for technology, digital resources, infrastructure, and initiatives that expand services for learning, access to information, workforce d…

Grants for Museums & Libraries (various programs) is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Grants for Museums and Libraries (various programs) is a suite of competitive grants from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) that funds museums, libraries, tribal organizations, and related institutions across the United States.

Promoting AI Literacy to Meet Evolving Global Challenges to Education, Workforce, and Economic Development is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). This program supports federal AI priorities by offering funding opportunities for institutions looking to implement AI training initiatives. It aims to position libraries and museums at the forefront of AI education for the public by assisting them in adapting to new technologies and ensuring patrons are prepared to leverage AI tools. Projects can focus on K-12 AI learning and integrating AI tools in museums and libraries.

Save America’s Treasures (Collections) is sponsored by IMLS / National Park Service (Historic Preservation Fund). Save America's Treasures (Collections) is a grant from the National Park Service and IMLS, through the Historic Preservation Fund, that funds conservation of nationally significant collections held by museums, libraries, archives, and other collecting institutions.

Museums for America Program is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The Museums for America program considers applications that focus on creating digital tools and platforms to broaden access and expand the use of museum collections. This can indirectly support digital equity by making cultural and educational resources more widely available.

Grants to States (Library Services and Technology Act - LSTA) is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). These formula grants provide financial support to state library agencies, which then use the funds to support a wide range of library services and programs. In Vermont, these funds support initiatives such as statewide resource sharing, training and continuing education for library staff, early literacy programming, and services to underserved populations.

Museum Grants for African American History and Culture (2026) is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The Museum Grants for African American History and Culture (AAHC) program builds the capacity of African American museums and supports the growth and development of museum professionals, as well as increasing access to museum and archival collections at African American museums …

Grants to State Library Administrative Agencies (LSTA) is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) is the only federal program providing funds exclusively for libraries, supporting a range of services and technology. Administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), LSTA Grants to States funds are used by state library agencies to support state and local initiatives, as prioritized by the state. These funds can be distributed through subgrants or cooperative agreements to public, school, academic, research, and special libraries. Literacy programs are a supported activity.

Grants to State Library Administrative Agencies (under the Library Services and Technology Act) is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). This program provides funds to State Library Administrative Agencies using a population-based formula. Texas uses these funds to support goals such as providing access to shared library resources, digital resources, and services that support literacy and educational attainment, especially early childhood and family literacy, workforce readiness, and lifelong learning. State libraries may use the appropriation to support statewide initiatives and services, and may distribute funds through sub-grant competitions or cooperative agreements to various types of libraries.

Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Grants to States Program is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) (administered through Alaska State Library). The LSTA program authorizes state program grants to certified state library administrative agencies to promote literacy, education, and lifelong learning, including by building learning partnerships with school libraries and developing resources, capabilities, and programs to of…

Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program (LB21) is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program supports projects to recruit and educate the next generation of librarians, faculty, and library leaders; and to support early-career research. It also assists in the professional development of librarians and library staff.

Grants to States Program (Library Services and Technology Act - LSTA) is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The Grants to States program is the largest source of federal funding for library services in the U.S. Funding is distributed to State Library Administrative Agencies (SLAAs), which then use these funds to support statewide initiatives or distribute them through competitive subawards to eligible libraries. These funds can support services and programs such as access to electronic databases, computer instruction, homework centers, summer reading programs, digitization of special collections, access to e-books, adaptive technology, bookmobile service, and outreach programs to the underserved. In North Carolina, these grants support new or expanded library programs and services, including addressing rural childhood literacy gaps.

Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Grants to States Program (Wisconsin) is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) administered by Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction's Division for Libraries and Technology. This federal grant program supports library services in Wisconsin, focusing on priorities outlined in the LSTA Five-Year Plan. Funds can be used for statewide initiatives, technology purchases, professional development, and programs that improve access to information and promote digital literacy.

Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Grants to State Library Administrative Agencies is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The LSTA program provides federal funds to state libraries, including the State Library of Louisiana, to promote improvements in library services, facilitate access to resources, and encourage resource sharing. In Louisiana, these funds are primarily used to support statewide library initiatives and services such as literacy and reading programs (including the Summer Reading Program), developing the skills of library directors and staff, statewide access to online databases, and library services for individuals with disabilities.

Grants to States (New York State Library - Summer Reading at New York Libraries) is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) (passed through New York State Library). Through the Grants to States program, IMLS provides funding to State Library Administrative Agencies. The New York State Library utilizes this funding for statewide programs and services such as 'Summer Reading at New York Libraries' and 'Ready to Read at New York Libraries', aimed at improving literacy and academic performance by promoting reading and improving children's access to library materials.

Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Grants to States Program (New York State Library) is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The LSTA program provides federal funds to state library agencies based on population. The New York State Library receives $8.1 million annually to support New York's 7,000 libraries, 72 library systems, and the NYS Library itself. These funds are used to support early literacy and adult literacy programs, access to high-quality electronic resources, and employment information services.

Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) - Grants to States is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The LSTA program provides federal funds to state library agencies based on population. In New York State, these funds are used to support employment information services, early literacy and adult literacy programs, and access to high-quality electronic resources. This includes initiatives like "Ready to Read at New York Libraries" and "Summer Reading at New York Libraries."

IMLS Youth and Community Programs is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). IMLS provides grants to museums, libraries, and tribal organizations to support innovative programs for youth and communities across the United States. While not exclusively AI-focused, IMLS has recently awarded grants for projects dedicated to building AI literacy and integrating AI tools into museums and libraries, particularly for K-12 audiences.

LSTA EZ Grants & Project Grants is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) / Library of North Carolina (a division of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources). The Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grants provide competitive funding to North Carolina libraries to enhance their services and address community needs. These federal funds, administered by the Library of North Carolina, support projects that align with the state's strategic goals for community engagement, expanding access, and responsive organizations. This includes initiatives for early literacy, digital connectivity and skills, and access to resources.

Grants to State Library Administrative Agencies (LSTA Program) is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). This is the largest source of federal funding support for library services in the U.S. IMLS distributes funding to State Library Administrative Agencies (SLAAs) using a population-based formula. SLAAs may use the funds to support statewide initiatives and services, and they may also distribute funds through competitive subawards or cooperative agreements to public, academic, research, school, or special libraries or consortia. These funds can support various programs, including those that improve literacy for job seekers, provide access to eBooks, and develop outreach programs to the underserved.

Grants to State Library Administrative Agencies (Grants to States Program) is sponsored by Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The Grants to States program is the largest source of federal funding for America's public libraries. Funds can be used for statewide initiatives and services, and may be distributed through subawards to various libraries or consortia. Projects supported include access to e-books and adaptive technology, and outreach programs to the underserved, including persons having difficulty using a library.

Workforce Development Grants is a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) through the Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives (KDLA) that funds workforce development and digital literacy programs in Kentucky public libraries. Administered through the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Grants to States program, KDLA distributes ,723,227 annually to support statewide initiatives and special projects. Eligible applicants include Kentucky public libraries and organizations partnering with libraries for workforce and digital literacy services. The program encourages the blending of local, state, and federal resources to build and enhance library services that strengthen Kentucky's 120 public libraries and their communities.