National Leadership Grants for Libraries (2027)
Open Closes November 13, 2026 (13 days left)
Institute of Museum and Library Services is offering grants of up to $1.0 million (at least $25,000) to the applicants described in the notice. It expects to make about 45 awards worth $11.5 million in total. Applications close on November 13, 2026.
From the official notice on Grants.gov, last changed September 1, 2026. Checked October 31, 2026.
- Award ceiling$1.0 million
- Award floor$25,000
- Expected awards45
- Total funding$11.5 million
- Cost sharingRequired
- Funding typeGrant
Key dates
| Posted | September 1, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Deadline | November 13, 2026 |
Add the deadline to your calendar
Who can apply
This opportunity is open to the applicants described in the notice.
- Others (see text field entitled "Additional Information on Eligibility" for clarification)
See the Notice of Funding Opportunity for eligibility requirements.
Is this a realistic fit?
- The notice requires cost sharing or matching funds, so you must contribute part of the project cost.
What the grant funds
National Leadership Grants for Libraries (NLG-L) projects enhance the quality of library services nationwide. The program supports projects that: promote adult reading, and health and financial literacies; focus on programming and archival practices related to our shared American history; manage and preserve the national information infrastructure; serve the public’s information and education needs; enhance library and information services through effective and efficient use of new and emerging technologies; improve community prosperity; provide emergency services to communities during disasters and emergencies; and build collaborative partnerships between libraries, archives, and museums that benefit the communities they serve.
How to apply
- Read the full notice and attachments on Grants.gov and the agency's announcement. The notice is the official source for deadlines and requirements.
- Make sure your organization has an active SAM.gov registration and Unique Entity ID; registration can take several weeks.
- Register on Grants.gov and submit through Workspace before the deadline and time given in the notice. Our application guide walks through each step.
Questions go to Institute of Museum and Library Services, imls-librarygrants@imls.gov, 202-653-4634.
Questions people ask
Who can apply for National Leadership Grants for Libraries (2027)?
Institute of Museum and Library Services accepts applications from the applicants described in the notice. The notice adds further conditions, so read its eligibility section.
What is the deadline for National Leadership Grants for Libraries (2027)?
Closes November 13, 2026 (13 days left). Confirm the date and time in the official notice on Grants.gov.
How much funding is available?
Awards of up to $1.0 million each. About $11.5 million in total across about 45 awards.