I know this isn’t a perfect match with broadband but I figured there might be some community leaders reading who might use this as a good excuse to connect with the local library as a way to look at improving broadband, technology or training to patrons. The library is a great place for folks to get online – a stepping stone certainly – but a safe place to learn the advantages of broadband…
Library Services and Technology Act Competitive Grant Announcement
Federal Fiscal Year 2013The Minnesota Department of Education, State Library Services, is pleased to announce the 2013 Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) competitive grant opportunity. State Library Services welcomes applications from any legally established public library, academic library, special library, school library, library cooperative or consortium in Minnesota or any Minnesota organization with tax exempt, non-profit status willing to serve as fiscal agent for a project that benefits one or more libraries.
Interested applicants that meet eligibility guidelines are invited to submit applications that address the priorities identified in Minnesota’s recently published Five Year LSTA Plan (2013-2017). Minnesota’s Plan identifies two overarching goals and several sub-goals directed at ensuring that all Minnesotans have access to quality library services. We welcome proposals that expand programs and services that support Minnesotan’s needs for education, lifelong learning, continuing education, workforce development, 21st century and digital literacy skills; and/or establish a strong infrastructure and build capacity for improved coordination among and between eligible libraries to improve the quality of and access to library and information services.
An estimated allocation of $450,000 (Grants to States, CFDA 45.310) is available for projects taking place between mid-November 2013 and September 30, 2014. Depending on the proposed size of projects, we anticipate awarding approximately 10 grants. With a compressed time frame, projects focused on expanding innovative and successful practices to serve new audiences, equipment and furniture purchases, software development, feasibility studies or pilot projects may best address local needs. We also encourage projects focused on supporting early learning.
Application forms, guidelines and the LSTA 2013-2017 Plan are available at the Department of Education’s Grants Management webpage. Scroll to Library Services and Technology grant opportunity and Library Services in the Program Area column.
Please contact Jackie Blagsvedt, LSTA Coordinator, with any questions or for more information: Jacqueline.blagsvedt@state.mn.us or 651-582-8805. All applications are due at State Library Services by 3:30pm on October 25, 2013.