Application Process

MBLC offers grants annually. The FY2025 Direct Grants round is open.

Eligibility

All types of libraries in Massachusetts may apply for LSTA direct grants if they meet eligibility criteria. Attention to deadlines and details is also essential for success: funds are finite and only applicants who fulfill all requirements can be considered. Please note that some grant opportunities may only be open to certain types of libraries. An overview of the program is available to watch. 

Current Strategic Plan

Deadline: October 1, 2023
If multiple libraries plan to work jointly on an LSTA direct grant, only one library needs to have a current, approved strategic plan and action plan on file by the due dates.
Upload your plan for approval: strategic plan submission

Action Plan

Deadline: December 1, 2023
The action plan required will be the plan for the year of the grant, FY2025 (July 2024 through June 2025), not the current year.
Upload your plan for approval: action plan submission

Member of Massachusetts Library System (MLS)

All applicants must be members of the Massachusetts Library System. The requirements for membership vary by library type. See the MLS website for more details. 

State Aid to Public Libraries Certification

All public libraries intending to apply must be and remain certified to receive State Aid.

Additional Requirements (Preservation Grants ONLY)

Grant Opportunities

Libraries may apply for one of several pre-determined grant categories, or design a unique project under the Open Grant umbrella.

Application

Letter of Intent

Any library intending to apply MUST submit a letter of intent for the grant round opportunity by the  December deadline. Letters of intent are submitted through Amplifund, the MBLC's grant management software. A recording of the training as well as the slides are now available to any applicant.

Full Application

The application is a two step process. The final submission must be ready for the April 10, 2024 deadline, but a first draft is required by February 28, 2024. This will allow your consultant to provide feedback and leave time for you to make any adjustments before the application is due. Materials may always be submitted in advance of the deadline. Each step is required to continue in the application process and must be submitted no later than the listed date.

Eligible applicants who submitted a letter of intent will complete the application for the FY25 grant online. A recording of the training as well as the slides from the technical training are now available to any applicant.

Assistance

Applicants can find guidance, tips, and examples in the Direct Grants to Libraries Application LibGuide.

The consultant listed as the contact for the grant category you're applying for is available to answer questions via email or phone.