Simpler Grants.gov #LB21-FY27

IMLS Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program Grant Opportunity

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is seeking applications for the Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program grant, focused on strengthening the library and archival workforce across the United States. - Government Buyer: - Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), Office of Library Services - OEMs and Vendors: - No specific OEMs or commercial vendors are mentioned; this is a grant opportunity for eligible institutions - Products/Services Requested: - Grants to support recruitment, education, training, and retention of library and archives professionals - Six project types: Planning, Forum, Community-Centered Implementation, National Implementation, Early Career Research, and Applied Research - Projects may include innovative alternatives to traditional librarian education, community engagement, health and wellness promotion, partnerships with civic institutions, and use of new technologies such as artificial intelligence - No specific products or part numbers; focus is on services and programmatic activities - Unique or Notable Requirements: - Eligible applicants: U.S.-based libraries, academic units, digital libraries, consortia, associations, and affiliated nonprofits - Funding range: $25,000 to $1,000,000 per award - Total estimated funding: $8,500,000 - Anticipated number of awards: 35 - Projects must begin on August 1, 2027 and may last one to three years - Cost sharing or matching is required - Priority for rural and remote communities and institutions new to federal funding - Emphasis on innovative approaches and use of new technologies, including AI

Description

The Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program aims to build a library and archival workforce capable of meeting the information needs of diverse communities and enhancing the capacity of libraries, archives, and library science graduate programs nationwide. The program encourages projects that engage communities in American history, connect workers with employment and training opportunities, promote health and wellness, foster partnerships with civic institutions, and utilize new technologies including AI. Funding supports innovative alternatives to traditional librarian education and credentialing, with a focus on rural and remote communities and institutions new to federal funding. The program offers grants with a cost-sharing requirement and supports projects lasting one to three years starting August 1, 2027.

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