GrantGather

Grants / Arts

Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program (2027)

Institute of Museum and Library Services

Deadline
November 13, 2026in 24 days
Award size
$75,000 to $1 millionAbout 35 awards
Matching funds
RequiredYou must contribute some of the cost
Fit for small groups
Possible fit

In plain language

This grant helps libraries and archives train staff to better serve their communities. It supports projects that improve library services and training programs. The money can be used for education and workforce development.

The money can pay for

  • Training for library staff
  • Improving library services
  • Workforce development programs
  • Supporting library and archive programs

Who can apply

Organizations that work with libraries, archives, or library and information science programs may be eligible.

Is it a fit for a small group?

Possible fit. This grant is meant for libraries and archives, which may not directly match the work of small community nonprofits like food pantries or arts groups.

Before you apply

  • Matching funds are required
  • Eligibility details are in the Notice of Funding Opportunity
  • The grant focuses on library and archive workforce development
  • Federal applicants need an active registration at SAM.gov and a Grants.gov account. Registration can take several weeks, so start early.

This summary was written by GrantGather with AI, based on the official listing. It can contain mistakes. Check the official listing on Grants.gov before you apply.

From the official listing

Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian (LB21) projects build a library and archival workforce that can meet the information needs of communities of all types and sizes and increase the institutional capacity of libraries, archives, and library and information science graduate programs across the country.

Opportunity number
LB21-FY27
Posted
September 1, 2026
Total funding
$8.5 million
Eligible applicants
Others (see eligibility details)
Eligibility details
See the Notice of Funding Opportunity for eligibility requirements.
Assistance listing
45.313 Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program
Agency contact
Institute of Museum and Library Services
imls-librarygrants@imls.gov
202-653-4634
Open the official listing on Grants.govAgency’s full announcement

Nonprofits are eligible here through the “Others” category. Read the eligibility details carefully.