INFOhio Community

The State Library of Ohio Board awarded $177,837 in LSTA Competitive Grants to three universities, one school, and two public libraries. Federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funding for the grants awarded at their December meeting is from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

Eastern Local Schools and Hiram College were awarded Ohio LSTA Competitive Grants in the category of Literacy. The purpose of the Literacy category is to support the library’s role in the development of learning and experiences where literacy is defined as the ability to read, write and interact across a range of platforms and tools, and it encompasses early literacy, digital literacy, functional literacy, financial literacy, health literacy, and others.

Otterbein University and Harris-Elmore Public Library were awarded Ohio LSTA Competitive Grants in the category of Library as Community Anchor. The purpose of the Library as Community Anchor category is to 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 mental health of those served.

Public Library of Mount Vernon and Knox County and Ohio Wesleyan University Library were awarded Ohio LSTA Competitive Grants in the category of Outreach and Engagement. The purpose of Outreach and Engagement category is to assist libraries in providing new and innovative ways of offering services to users and potential users and in reaching individuals at a range of locations and through a variety of methods, typically outside of the traditional library facility. Efforts may include reaching populations not otherwise served by the library and the establishment of new or novel partnerships.

"Ohio libraries once again demonstrated their excellence and ingenuity in this year’s LSTA Competitive Grant Program,” expressed State Librarian Wendy Knapp. “While it is disappointing that we cannot fund every grant, the six libraries that will receive grants this year are a representation of the library landscape across the state, coming from different regions and types of libraries.  The common thread of the role the library plays for individuals wanting to grow their knowledge and/or skills will underpin each of the programs over the next eight months.”

Read brief summaries of awarded grants.