The Library of Michigan grants programs are open for 2021! Two grants programs open for applications this year. Detailed information on the grant programs, including timelines, applicant eligibility, and the applications are available at www.michigan.gov/lsta in the respective grant sections. We recommend reading the documentation thoroughly before applying.

Improving Access to Information Grant program

This LSTA grant program is designed to provide public and academic libraries with the opportunity to expand services for learning and access to information and/or to develop library services that provide all users access to information. The intent is to fund one-year projects that improve access to library collections and information. The expected focus will be the improvement in access to library users in one of the three priorities listed below and that align with the LSTA priorities listed in the grant documentation.

Improve access to services & information in areas of literacy.
Improve access to services & information in areas of local history or special collections.
Improve access to information for community users with limited online access, e.g. improving equity through digital inclusion.

The grant period is one year (Oct. 1 - Sept. 30) and funding is from $5,000 to $25,000. Funding is by reimbursement only. Applications are due Thursday, May 27, 2021 by 5:00 PM EST. Eligible applicants are Michigan public libraries that are legally established and currently eligible for state aid or Michigan academic libraries that meet the standards for library service listed in the grant documentation. An application webinar is Thursday, April 8th at 2:00 PM. Registration is on the Improving Access to Information grants page. The grant program is competitive.

Public Library Services Grant program

This program provides funding for public libraries to purchase materials and supplies that meet the selected program topics for a given year and are for an identified program or service the library will provide. The intent is to supplement local topical programs that improve information access and quality of service in their communities. The expected focus will be on small projects that improve community services in one of the three priorities listed below and that align with the LSTA priorities listed in the grant documentation.

Literacy programs
Children and Teen programs
Technology programs

The grant period is from mid-April to August. Funding will be from $500 to $2,500. Funding is by reimbursement only. Applications are due Wednesday, March 3, 2021 by 5:00 PM EST. Eligible applicants are Michigan public libraries that are legally established and currently eligible for state aid. An application webinar is Thursday, February 11^th at 2:00 PM. Registration is on the Public Library Services grants page. The grant program is lightly competitive.

Please contact Karren Reish at 517-241-0021 or reishk@michigan.gov with questions on the programs. You can find all related documents at www.michigan.gov/lsta in the respective grant sections. Applications and all accompanying documents are submitted online.

Karren Reish

Library of Michigan

Library Grants Coordinator

517-241-0021