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.
Requirements
Current Strategic Plan
Deadline: October 1, 2022
Upload your plan for approval: strategic plan submission
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.
Action Plan
Deadline: December 1, 2022
Upload your plan for approval: action plan submission
The action plan required will be the plan for the year of the grant, not the current year.
For example:
On or before December 1, 2022, a library submits an action plan for fiscal year 2024 (July 2023 through June 2024).
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.
Preservation Grant Categories
Some preservation grants have requirements in addition to the application.
Please note that the Preservation Assessment Grant now has a separate application process and timeline.
Applicants for Archives Arrangement & Description, Managing Fine & Decorative Arts, or Protecting Priority Collections must:
- Have completed a recent Preservation Assessment and/or MBLC Self-Assessment
- Have submitted a list of special collection management priorities (template provided upon request.)