Sustainable & Resilient New England Libraries Grant

2025 Grant Information

Closed For Grant Applications. Grant Decisions will be posted in mid-April.

For Small and/or Rural Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont Libraries

Over the past three years, The Manton Foundation has partnered with ARSL to invest approximately $1.4 million to strengthen small and rural libraries across New England. This funding has played a crucial role in supporting critical infrastructure and service improvements, ensuring these libraries remain vital community resources. In 2024 alone, nearly two-thirds of applicants received grants averaging $12,000 per project. These awards primarily funded capital improvements, such as ADA accessibility upgrades, heating and air conditioning improvements, and LED lighting conversions. Additional grants supported community-driven programs, including food security initiatives, garden projects, and sustainability-focused events.

The public library serves as a cornerstone of small-town life, providing access to education, social services, internet connectivity, and cultural enrichment. This grant program ensures that libraries in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont can continue to offer essential services while adapting to the evolving needs of their communities.

Through ongoing support from The Manton Foundation, this program will continue to enhance library facilities and services, ensuring resilient, thriving communities throughout New England.

Grant Guidelines:

  • Libraries must be in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, or Vermont.
  • Libraries serving populations meeting the IMLS definition of a small and/or rural library
  • Grants must be used for facility improvements or outreach and programming activities that provide the library with sustainability and build resilience. This year, grant funds may be used to support costs associated with fundraising initiatives.
  • Sample projects include weatherization, ADA compliance updates, sustainable facility certification, improvements to library green spaces, community events focused on sustainability, and staff efforts to support the diversification of local library funding needs.
  • Libraries selected for funding may use the grant for one-time, non-renewable projects.
  • No general operating grants will be considered.
  • The ARSL Grants, Awards & Scholarships Committee assesses applicability through an established rubric during selection.
  • Priority is given to first-time applicants, however prior awardees may request additional grants during subsequent grant cycles.
  • ARSL membership is not required to participate in the grant program.
  • For more inquiries, please visit our Grant FAQ
2024 Testimonials & Recipients