The purpose of this guide is to provide Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Direct Grants to Libraries applicants with examples, tips, and guidance for completing their grant application. The goal is for libraries to submit an application which adheres to Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) guidelines and is recommended for funding by the State Advisory Council for Libraries (SACL). A well written proposal will set you up for success in executing your grant once it has been awarded.
Each applicant will have an assigned consultant here at the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) that you will be working with throughout this process. We are here to help you so please ask us any questions that are sure to come up throughout the process.
Below are some recent applications that are good examples of how to write a strong proposal. You may also reach out to your consultant for examples that are more closely related to your topic.
Applicants must submit a draft to their assigned consultant by February 28, 2024 to remain eligible. The consultant will return the draft with comments to the applicant by March 27, 2024. Final applications will be due by April 10, 2024. Applications must be submitted through Amplifund.
Reviewers use the criteria in the document included below to score applications. The resulting scores play a key role in guiding decisions on recommending projects for funding.
This website, and other programs of the MBLC, is funded in part with funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, a federal agency that fosters innovation, leadership, and a lifetime of learning.