Library Services and Technology Act
Federal funds distributed through the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to state library agencies, which then award grants to individual libraries for technology, digital resources, and infrastructure projects.
What It Covers:
Eligibility: Public libraries, academic libraries, research libraries, school libraries (varies by state)
Key Note: If your website build includes technology upgrades or digital access improvements, you may qualify for LSTA funding. Contact your state library agency for application details and deadlines.
American Library Association Grant Programs
The ALA maintains a comprehensive list of grants available to libraries covering programs, research, technology initiatives, and special projects.
What It Covers:
Typical Award Amounts: Varies widely by grant program ($500 - $10,000+)
Key Note: Excellent resource to scan for website and IT upgrade opportunities. Carefully review eligibility requirements and match requirements for each grant program.
NTIA Digital Equity Grants
Federal funding through the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) with states offering sub-grants to libraries for digital access and equity initiatives.
What It Covers:
Focus Areas: Underserved communities, accessibility, digital divide reduction
Key Note: If your website build has equity, access, or inclusion goals (such as ADA compliance, mobile access, multilingual support), emphasizing this angle significantly strengthens your application.
State-Specific Grant Programs
Many states offer dedicated technology and website grants specifically for public libraries. These programs are often directly administered by state library agencies.
Example State Programs:
What They Cover:
Key Note: These are very relevant for website and technology projects. Check your state library agency website regularly for calls for proposals. Many states announce annual or biennial technology grant cycles.
American Rescue Plan Act & Emergency Grants
Various states have allocated ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds and other emergency funding specifically for library technology improvements and infrastructure.
What It Covers:
Availability: Limited time opportunities - check state library for current offerings
Key Note: While ARPA funding windows may be closing, similar emergency or special allocation funds may become available. Stay connected with your state library agency for announcements.
Private Sector Funding Opportunities
Private foundations and corporations offer grants specifically for library technology, digital literacy, and innovation projects.
Common Sources:
Focus Areas: Innovation, digital literacy, community impact, technology access
Key Note: Foundation grants often require demonstration of innovation and community impact. Emphasize how your technology project will transform library services and benefit your community.
Strengthen applications by emphasizing:
Support your application with:
Address long-term viability:
Define clear success metrics:
Before applying:
Step 1: Contact your state library agency to learn about current technology grant opportunities and application cycles.
Step 2: Subscribe to grant alert services from ALA, IMLS, and your state library to receive notifications about new funding opportunities.
Step 3: Review recently funded projects to understand what makes successful applications in your state and region.
Step 4: Document your current technology needs and community impact data before application deadlines arrive.
Step 5: Consider joining a grant writing workshop or webinar (many offered free through WebJunction and state libraries).
Step 6: Build relationships with other libraries that have successfully secured technology grants to learn from their experiences.
IMLS: Federal grants and LSTA information
ALA Office for Library Advocacy: Grant resources and advocacy support
State Library Consultant: Personal guidance on grant opportunities specific to your library