GrantGather

Grants / Arts

National Leadership Grants for Libraries (2027)

Institute of Museum and Library Services

Deadline
November 13, 2026in 24 days
Award size
$25,000 to $1 millionAbout 45 awards
Matching funds
RequiredYou must contribute some of the cost
Fit for small groups
Possible fit

In plain language

This grant helps libraries improve their services and support community needs. It pays for projects that focus on reading, history, technology, and emergency help. It is meant for organizations that work with libraries or related groups.

The money can pay for

  • Promote adult reading
  • Support health and financial literacy
  • Improve library technology
  • Provide emergency services

Who can apply

Organizations that meet the eligibility requirements described in the Notice of Funding Opportunity can apply.

Is it a fit for a small group?

Possible fit. This grant is for libraries and related groups, and it may require matching funds or partnerships that small nonprofits might not have.

Before you apply

  • Matching funds are required
  • Eligibility details are in the Notice of Funding Opportunity
  • Projects must focus on library services
  • 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

National Leadership Grants for Libraries (NLG-L) projects enhance the quality of library services nationwide. The program supports projects that: promote adult reading, and health and financial literacies; focus on programming and archival practices related to our shared American history; manage and preserve the national information infrastructure; serve the public’s information and education needs; enhance library and information services through effective and efficient use of new and emerging technologies; improve community prosperity; provide emergency services to communities during disasters and emergencies; and build collaborative partnerships between libraries, archives, and museums that benefit the communities they serve.

Opportunity number
NLG-LIBRARIES-FY27
Posted
September 1, 2026
Total funding
$12 million
Eligible applicants
Others (see eligibility details)
Eligibility details
See the Notice of Funding Opportunity for eligibility requirements.
Assistance listing
45.312 National Leadership Grants
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.