INFOhio Community

Eligible libraries of all types are welcome to apply. The application period began September 4, 2024. Applicants may request up to $50,000 in federal funds and all projects must include a 25% local cash match of the total project cost.  Applications must be filled out via online form, supplying required attachments, and must be received at the State Library by 11:59 p.m. November 3, 2024. Please note: applications must be completed in one sitting, so prepare accordingly. Information about the Ohio LSTA grant program can be found at:  library.ohio.gov/libraries/grants.  Complete information about the LSTA Competitive Grant is available at library.ohio.gov/competitive-grants. 

Ohio libraries continuously reassess and transform methods and resources used to support and enhance the lives of the residents and communities they serve. In recent years, libraries have launched innovative and creative solutions with an unwavering commitment to the values and principles of library service. The State Library of Ohio commends these initiatives and is dedicated to supporting Ohio libraries in further evolving and enriching their programs and services to address the needs of their communities. Ohio LSTA grants are an essential part of our service, and we encourage eligible Ohio libraries to submit proposals for the Ohio LSTA Competitive Grant. This grant initiative supports Ohio’s LSTA Five-Year Plan 2023-2027 and invites proposals that address at least one of the following three focus areas:

• Library as Community Anchor – These project proposals would support the role libraries play in strengthening their communities and providing a destination for learning, engagement, social support, and expression. This can include areas of employment-related help, economic development support, civic engagement, gathering spaces, and support for the physical and mental well-being of the community served. 

• Literacy – These project proposals would support the library’s role in the development of learning experiences where literacy is defined as the ability to read, write, and interact across a range of platforms and tools. This could encompass early literacy, digital literacy, functional literacy, adult literacy, financial literacy, health literacy, and others. 

• Outreach and Engagement – These project proposals would assist libraries in providing new and innovative ways of offering services to users (and potential users) and in reaching individuals at a variety of locations and through a range of methods. Typically focused outside of the traditional library facility, proposals may include reaching populations not otherwise served by the library as well as the establishment of new or novel partnerships that would expand the library's reach. 

“With these three overarching areas of focus, there is flexibility for any eligible Ohio library to be creative and thoughtful when putting together a grant application that best supports the community served, while also addressing the goals laid out in the 2023-2027 LSTA Five-Year Plan,” expressed Evan T. Struble, Associate State Librarian for Library Development. “I can’t wait to see what projects and initiatives are proposed from the library community and ultimately approved for funding by our Board.” 

For more information about the LSTA Competitive Grant visit library.ohio.gov/competitive-grants. 

Recommended applications will be presented to the State Library Board for funding in December 2024 and the implementation period is January 1, 2025 – August 31, 2025.

 Questions may be addressed to LSTA@library.ohio.gov.