July 25, 2019

Federal Library Grants Open for National Leadership, Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Programs
Application Deadline is September 27, 2019

Washington, DC—The Institute of Museum and Library Services is now accepting FY 2020 proposals for National Leadership Grants for Libraries (NLG-L) and the Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian program (LB21)

Applicants have through September 27, 2019, to submit their two-page preliminary proposals. 

National Leadership Grants for Libraries support projects that enhance the quality of library and archives services nationwide by advancing theory and practice. Successful proposals will generate results such as new tools, research findings, models, services, practices, or alliances that will be widely used, adapted, scaled, or replicated to extend the benefits of federal investment. This work may be achieved through proposals at various stages of maturity (exploring, piloting, enhancing, or scaling).  

The Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian program invests in developing a diverse workforce of librarians to better meet the changing learning and information needs of the American public by enhancing the training and professional development of library and archives professionals, developing faculty and library leaders, and recruiting, educating, and retaining the next generation of library and archives professionals. 

“Library professionals power incredible change across the nation. As a custodian of public dollars, IMLS looks for investments that will make libraries even better in achieving their missions and providing essential services,” said IMLS Director Dr. Kathryn K. Matthew. “We hope to see a range of proposals that explore, test, share, and enhance new ideas across the library field.” 

Applicants should review the notices of funding opportunity carefully and reach out to IMLS staff members listed on the NLG-L and LB21 webpages with any questions.

Webinar
One pre-application webinar will be held with program staff to answer questions from potential applicants. The webinar is scheduled for Wednesday, August 7, 2019, from 3:30-4:30 p.m. ET. 

IMLS uses the Blackboard Collaborate system for webinars. If you are a first-time user of Blackboard Collaborate, see the webinar page for more information or to check your system compatibility. Recordings of the webinars will also be available on-demand.

About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's libraries and museums. We advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. Our vision is a nation where museums and libraries work together to transform the lives of individuals and communities. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Programs
Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program
National Leadership Grants for Libraries