[OPLINLIST] Applications Open for Guiding Ohio Online LSTA Grant

[marshams at library.ohio.gov]

[A picture containing logo  AI-generated content may be incorrect.]<https://library.ohio.gov/libraries/grants/guiding-ohio-online/guiding-ohio-online>The State Library of Ohio invites eligible public libraries to apply for the Guiding Ohio Online LSTA grant<https://library.ohio.gov/libraries/grants/guiding-ohio-online/apply>—this is an opportunity for libraries to expand technology services and strengthen digital skills in their communities.

Guiding Ohio Online<https://library.ohio.gov/libraries/grants/guiding-ohio-online/guiding-ohio-online> is a competitive LSTA grant program designed specifically for public libraries serving rural populations. The grant enables these libraries to hire a dedicated technology trainer to deliver hands-on support in communities where it is needed most.

Through this grant, libraries can hire a full- or part-time technology trainer as an independent contractor to:

  *   Offer computer and technology instruction
  *   Provide one-on-one technology help
  *   Lead technology-focused community outreach
  *   Support patrons in building essential digital skills

The Guiding Ohio Online grant covers 75% of the trainer’s costs, with only a 25% local cash match required.

Grants awarded by the State Library of Ohio utilize federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funding provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) Grants to States program.

State Library staff will be hosting two virtual Open Office Hour events to answer questions about the Guiding Ohio Online program. These will be Thursday February 26, 11:00AM – 12:00PM<https://events.library.ohio.gov/event/16386830> and Wednesday March 11, 12:00PM – 1:00PM<https://events.library.ohio.gov/event/16386869>. The Open Office Hour sessions are a great chance to ask specific questions and learn more about the process and benefits of the Guiding Ohio Online program.

Libraries that wish to submit a draft application for review should submit those by 5:00PM Wednesday March 11, 2026. Draft applications can be submitted via the State Library of Ohio’s online draft submission form.  <https://library.ohio.gov/libraries/grants/additional-resources/request-review>The final deadline for submission is Sunday, March 22, 2026, at 11:59PM. Questions may be addressed to Anne Kennedy, Library Consultant, at akennedy at library.ohio.gov<mailto:akennedy at library.ohio.gov> or (614) 466-1710.

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Marsha McDevitt-Stredney
Director, Marketing & Communications
State Library of Ohio
274 E. 1st Avenue
Columbus, OH 43201
Tel: 614.644.6875
marshams at library.ohio.gov<mailto:marshams at library.ohio.gov>
library.ohio.gov<https://library.ohio.gov/>

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