The American Library Association’s Libraries Transforming Communities Initiative Receives Additional $10 Million in Funding

Majority of funding aims to support small and rural libraries across the United States

CHICAGO (Feb. 27, 2024) — The American Library Association (ALA) announced today that it has received $10 million in support of its Libraries Transforming Communities (LTC) initiative to continue providing libraries with tools and resources to serve people with disabilities. A substantial portion of the funding – $7 million – will be distributed in grants of $10,000 and $20,000 to small and rural libraries.

In collaboration with the Association for Rural & Small Libraries (ARSL), LTC offers grants to qualifying libraries across the country with a population under 25,000 and located at least five miles from an urbanized area, aligning with the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) definitions of small and rural libraries. Libraries use the funding to increase the accessibility of facilities, services and programs to better serve people with disabilities. .

Currently, 240 libraries nationwide are using LTC funding across 43 states and the Northern Mariana Islands, with 65% serving communities of less than 5,000 people. Now, libraries like Nevada Public, Iowa, are using this support to enhance safety during severe weather with measures like chair lifts. In Goldthwaite, Texas, Jennie Trent Dew Library is expanding programs for patrons with intellectual disabilities, while Mark Twain Library in Redding, Connecticut, is developing memory kits for Alzheimer’s patients, showcasing LTC's impact on community empowerment.

“ALA is overjoyed to continue moving the needle when it comes to serving small and rural communities,” said ALA President Emily Drabinski. “This program is a step in the right direction to impactful change. We are so grateful to have this generous grant that will assist so many libraries and communities regarding the core issue of accessibility in underserved areas.”

The next LTC call for proposals will be announced in fall 2024, and up to 300 libraries will be awarded funding. To be notified when the opportunity opens, sign up to receive ALA’s Programming Librarian e-newsletter.

“These grants are more than just funding,” said Kate Laughlin, executive director of the Association for Rural & Small Libraries (ARSL). “They're lifelines for small and rural libraries, allowing them to bridge the gap between aspiration and achievement. They have already helped unlock so many doors to learning and empowerment and we can't wait to see how many more avenues for access are created in the next round of grants!”

For more information regarding the Libraries Transforming Communities grant program and the application process, visit www.ala.org/ltc.

About the American Library Association
The American Library Association (ALA) is the foremost national organization providing resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services. For more than 140 years, the ALA has been the trusted voice for academic, public, school, government and special libraries, advocating for the profession and the library’s role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all. For more information, visit www.ala.org.

About the ALA Public Programs Office
The ALA Public Programs Office empowers libraries to create vibrant hubs of learning, conversation and connection in communities of all types. Learn more at www.ala.org/ppo.

About the Association for Rural & Small Libraries
ARSL builds strong communities through advocacy, professional development, and elevating the impact of rural and small libraries. As the premier organization representing rural and small libraries, ARSL recognizes the uniqueness of this constituency and is committed to providing an environment that encourages service excellence within our community of practice.