Rural Library Grant

Rural Library Grant is sponsored by Children's Literacy Foundation. Aims to boost excitement around literacy, increase circulation, and strengthen relationships with schools and communities in rural areas.

Rural Library Grant for VT & NH Children of Incarcerated Adults Community Literacy Conference Grant Application Guidelines Big Literacy Support for Small-Town Libraries This program supports smaller libraries and communities with an infusion of literacy activities, new books, programming mini-grants, and ways to connect with local schools.

Meet Our 2025-26 Grant Partners $2,000 in new children’s books for the public library and $500 in new books for the school library (both selected by librarians), plus new board books for children ages 0–5 distributed through the library or an early-childhood partner with an optional read-aloud.

Two CLiF author/illustrator visits —one in the fall and one in May or June—will take place at the local elementary school or library, featuring librarian-curated book showcases and a student book giveaway from a diverse CLiF selection. Early-childhood backpack kits for ages 0–5 will be added to library circulation, supported by a $500 mini-grant for food, supplies, and activities that enhance family literacy programming.

Additional $500 for summer programming as well! Library’s choice of $1000 to spend on additional library books; children’s section upgrades; transportation costs for school children to visit the library; summer, vacation week, homeschool, or afterschool programming; or a family literacy event.

Create a culture of literacy in the community by building enthusiasm for the public library Ensure all students have easy access to high quality, age-appropriate print materials at home, school, and library Strengthen the relationship between the public library and local elementary school Increase the percentage of children with library cards and the frequency with which they visit the library Introduce children to new people, places, and experiences through books, author/illustrator presenters, and creative programming opportunities Grant Eligibility Requirements Who Is Eligible to Apply?

Public libraries located in Vermont or New Hampshire that serve rural communities and demonstrate a clear need for CLiF support are eligible to apply. What Does “Rural” Mean for This Grant? Applicants must self-identify as rural; as a guideline, the U.S. Census Bureau defines rural areas as communities with populations of 5,000 or fewer .

Is There a Budget Requirement or Preference? Libraries with limited budgets are encouraged to apply, with preference generally given to libraries with annual budgets under $125,000 . How Is Community Need Evaluated?

Applicants must demonstrate a clear need for CLiF support in an under-served community. Is Collaboration with a School Required? Yes.

Applicants must demonstrate the ability and enthusiasm to collaborate with their local elementary school. Can Libraries That Have Received a Rural Library Grant Apply Again? Yes, but at least five years must have passed since the conclusion of the library’s last CLiF Rural Library grant.

For questions about eligibility, the application process, or technical support, please contact CLiF Program Manager Cassie Willner at cassie@clifonline. org . Applications open: April 1, 2026 Application deadline: May 25, 2026 Final grant evaluation deadline: June 30, 2027