The MBLC receives funding annually from the Massachusetts state budget, appropriated by the Massachusetts legislature and governor. It also receives federal funding through the Library Services Technology Act (LSTA), administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The MBLC also administers funds made available through a state capital improvements bond bill via the Massachusetts Public Library Construction Program.
Visit the Massachusetts legislature website for more information on the state budget process. The MBLC's FY2026 Legislative Agenda highlights funding priorities that impact library services for all residents.
For more information, contact Robert Favini.
| Item No. | Item Name | FY2025 Budget | FY2026 Legislative Agenda Request |
FY2026 Governor's Budget | FY2026 House Ways & Means Budget |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7000-9101 | Board of Library Commissioners | $2,074,268 | $2,489,122 | $2,074,268 | $2,073,664 |
| 7000-9401 | State Aid to Regional Libraries | $19,000,000 | $19,950,000 | $19,000,000 | $19,000,000 |
| 7000-9402 | Talking Book Library (Worcester) | $711,942 | $747,539 | $711,942 | $711,942 |
| 7000-9406 | Talking Book & Machine Lending (Perkins) | $4,053,441 | $4,256,113 | $4,053,441 | $4,053,441 |
| 7000-9501 | State Aid to Public Libraries | $20,000,000 | $22,000,000 | $20,000,000 | $20,000,000 |
| 7000-9506 | Library Technology & Resource Sharing | $6,169,480 | $6,477,954 | $6,172,690 | $6,172,690 |
| 7000-9508 | Center for the Book | $420,000 | $550,000 | $420,000 | $420,000 |
| TOTAL: | $52,429,131 | $56,470,728 | $52,432,341 | $52,431,737 | |
Capital Projects
The MBLC provides access to capital funds for building renovation, construction and repair via the Massachusetts Public Library Construction Program. The agency is currently able to provide up to $26,000,000 out of the bond each year for approved projects.
The current funds were authorized by 2024 Chapter 238, An Act Relative to Strengthening Massachusetts' Economic Leadership.
Board of Library Commissioners.
7000-9093.. For a program of grants to cities and towns for approved public library projects pursuant to sections 19G to 19J, inclusive, of chapter 78 of the General Laws; provided, that grants may be awarded to municipalities submitting applications jointly or through a regional planning agency............................. $150,000,000