Library Services and Technology Act
Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grants are federally funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and are awarded by the State Library to eligible California libraries. Please contact Lynne Oliva, LSTA Coordinator, at lynne.oliva@library.ca.gov with any questions.
In addition to the grant opportunities below, California libraries also have access to LSTA-funded statewide programs and projects. See Library Development Programs and Projects for ongoing efforts.
Current Opportunities
Virtual Youth Programming Grant
The Virtual Youth Programming Grant provides funding and structure for libraries to better engage youth through virtual programming.
The project period is March – August, 2021. The application process is now open.
Applications are due February 16, 2021. A grant guide and application information are available on the Virtual Youth Programming Grant page.
2021–2022 Local and Collaborative Competitive Grants
2021–2022 Local and Collaborative Competitive Grants help California’s libraries respond effectively to local needs and align services with local community aspirations; support experimentation and R&D in California’s libraries; and provide training and support in grant writing and grant management for the California library community. The funding period is July 2021–June 2022, and awards will be made after federal IMLS funding levels are confirmed for 2021–2022 and the 2021–2022 California State budget has passed.
Manage your grant
Find information on how to manage your grant, grant guides, reporting, and financial forms are available for current LSTA grant recipients
- CopyCat Grants (FY 19-20)
- Statewide and Competitive Grants (FY 19-20, FY 20-21)
- Public Library Staff Education (PLSEP) (FY 19-20)
Eligibility Requirements
In order for projects to be funded through LSTA they must
- adhere to the general guidelines for LSTA eligibility;
- follow the State Library’s current LSTA five year plan;
- adhere to federal restrictions on funding;
- use funding according to the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (2CFS 200);
- be in compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) in order to purchase devices that can connect to and browse the internet;
- and public libraries must also participate in the Public Library Survey each year.