IMLS Announces 158 Native American Library Services Basic Grants Awards

IMLS Announces 158 Native American Library Services Basic Grants Awards

Awarded projects advance education, workforce development, and heritage preservation.

Photo: Courtesy of Nooksack Indian Tribe. Students participating in after-school tutoring programs.

WASHINGTON, DC—The Institute of Museum and Library Services has announced that 158 Native American Library Services Basic Grant awards will be made for $1,720,828 to support 174 Federally Recognized Tribes.

The Native American Library Services Basic grants are noncompetitive, one-year grants of $6,000 to $10,000, available to federally recognized American Indian tribes and Alaska Native villages, corporations, and regional corporations. These grants are designed to assist AI/AN tribal nations in improving library services for their communities.

 “We are proud to present these 158 awards, which highlight the exceptional contributions of tribal libraries in advancing education, workforce development, and heritage preservation," said Acting Director Keith Sonderling. “These investments reflect American ideals of self-determination and empower communities to educate future generations, uphold traditions, and strengthen our nation’s foundation.” 

Some examples of what grant funds may be used for are:

• The Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa (Michigan) will improve services for learning and accessing information. Through the acquisition of materials and the development of services, the grant will support education, workforce development, economic and business development, digital literacy skills, and financial literacy.
• The Campo Band of Mission (California) will support the local economy and job creation by hiring local Tribal members to teach history and language classes at the Campo Indian Library. Funds will also support the acquisition of a Library Management System and training for library staff to improve the delivery of services, ensuring that students and the local community can access the resources they need.
• The Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe (Arizona) will provide salary support and training opportunities for the Tribal Librarian and Library Assistant. Funds will enable the staff to continue providing educational opportunities, including Parent-Baby-Toddler Time, student support services, and digital skills training. Additionally, professional development will allow library staff to improve existing services and ensure the local community receives vital library resources.

In addition to these newly awarded grants, IMLS has also reinstated all Native American Library Services Basic Grants from prior years.  

Materials can be accessed on the IMLS website here.