[OPLINLIST] Apply for our 2026 Summer Library Program Grant

[marshams at library.ohio.gov]

The State Library of Ohio is pleased to announce the 2026 Summer Library Program (SLP) grant<https://library.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/lib/libraries/grants/summer-library-program-grant/summer-library-program-grant> application is now open. The purpose of this Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant initiative is to empower libraries to enhance their 2026 summer programs with activities that spark creativity and learning, engage individuals of all ages, and benefit their communities. This grant is made possible with federal funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

Libraries may apply for up to $2,000 in federal LSTA funds to support summer programs for children, teens, and/or adults. Grant funds may be used for purchasing program materials, supplies, and contractual services for presenters and programs offered to the community during the 2026 summer.  For detailed guidelines on the use of awarded funds, please refer to the FAQs page<https://library.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/lib/libraries/grants/summer-library-program-grant/faq> . Applying libraries are encouraged to collaborate with other community entities, organizations, or agencies that also serve the targeted age groups.
 
“I’m delighted that the State Library is able to offer the LSTA Summer Library Program Grant, allowing libraries to explore innovative ways to engage users of all ages this summer,” stated Evan T. Struble, Associate State Librarian for Library Development. “In addition to youth-focused proposals, I encourage applicants to consider programming for adults and seniors, as well as multi-generational options, that can enhance the offerings designed specifically for children.”

Who Can Apply?

  *   Public libraries that receive Public Library Funds (PLF) are eligible to apply.

  *   School libraries located in a school that is accredited by the state are eligible to apply.

  *   Academic libraries that are part of an accredited institution of higher learning are eligible to apply.

  *   Special libraries are understood to be libraries or organizations that maintain and provide institutional support for specialized collections. This could include maintaining collections that focus on a particular topic or area of interest, serve specific constituents, or support a specific organization or purpose. Eligible special libraries must be willing to share or make their collections accessible to the public. Those special libraries that meet the above LSTA requirements are eligible to apply.

  *   Institution libraries, library consortia, statewide library networks, professional associations, and regional library systems identified in “Libraries in Ohio,” LSTA Five-Year Plan 2023-2027 are eligible to apply.

All applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m., Sunday February 22, 2026. The grant term runs from April 1 – August 31, 2026. The grant application process requires the completion of an online application.
 
Please note: This grant does not require the project coordinator to have an MLS/MLIS degree. Additionally, the use of Collaborative Summer Library Program (CSLP) themes and materials is not required for a library to be eligible for this LSTA grant.

Questions about the grant or the State Library of Ohio LSTA grant process should be addressed to LSTA Coordinator Jeff Regensburger at LSTA at library.ohio.gov<mailto:lsta at library.ohio.gov>.
Questions about developing SLP activities aligned with the purpose of this grant may be addressed to Youth Services Consultant Janet Ingraham Dwyer at jdwyer at library.ohio.gov<mailto:jdwyer at library.ohio.gov>, or Adult Services Consultant Katy Hite at khite at library.ohio.gov<mailto:khite at library.ohio.gov>.
 
Information about CSLP and other SLP resources of use to Ohio public libraries is available on the Ohio Summer Library Program webpage<https://library.ohio.gov/libraries/library-programs-and-development/summer-library-program>.
 
The State Library of Ohio administers Ohio’s LSTA program, funded through the independent federal agency Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

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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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