Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program (2026)

The Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program is a major federal initiative administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to enhance the capacity of libraries and archives across the United States. The program aims to build a workforce that is equipped to meet the evolving information needs of diverse communities, and to strengthen the institutional foundation of libraries, archives, and library and information science (LIS) education programs nationwide. The program draws its name from former First Lady Laura Bush, whose support for literacy and libraries has inspired a long-standing commitment to cultivating the next generation of LIS professionals. The program is grounded in the broader mission of IMLS to champion lifelong learning and professional development within the cultural and educational sectors. This grant opportunity funds a wide range of projects that support the recruitment, education, training, and retention of library and archives professionals. Eligible projects may involve developing or enhancing professional development offerings, preparing pre-professionals for LIS careers, expanding the capacity of LIS graduate programs, or conducting applied or early career research related to the library and archival fields. The LB21 program is open to a variety of institutions, including libraries, archives, library consortia, professional associations, academic units, and nonprofit organizations affiliated with libraries. Importantly, applicants must be based in the United States or U.S. territories and must meet specific eligibility criteria outlined in the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). Six project types are supported under the FY2026 cycle: Planning, Forum, Community-Centered Implementation, National Implementation, Early Career Research, and Applied Research. Each project type has its own funding range, duration, and requirements. For example, Planning and Forum grants offer $75,000–$200,000 with no cost share requirement and a one- to two-year term, while National Implementation grants offer up to $1,000,000 for a one- to three-year term, but require a 1:1 cost share for requests over $299,999. Early Career and Applied Research grants also allow up to $750,000 over three years and do not require cost share. Cost share is an eligibility criterion for National Implementation grants exceeding the $299,999 threshold and must be met through non-federal sources. Applicants must submit a comprehensive application via Grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on March 13, 2026. Required documents include the SF-424S form, narrative, budget forms and justification, performance measurement plan, digital products plan, resumes of key staff, and a schedule of completion. Depending on applicant type, additional documents such as proof of nonprofit status or indirect cost agreements may be required. Proposals will be evaluated through a peer review process based on project justification, work plan, results, and other review criteria outlined in the NOFO. A strong emphasis is placed on community collaboration, dissemination of results, and measurable impact. The program encourages projects that engage with national themes, including the 250th anniversary of American independence, workforce development in skilled trades, civic dialogue, and the use of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. Special consideration is also given to projects supporting rural or underserved communities, or those proposing innovative approaches to LIS education and credentialing. IMLS particularly welcomes proposals from institutions that have not traditionally received federal funding. Award notifications are anticipated in August 2026, with projects required to begin on or after September 1, 2026. Grant periods range from one to three years, depending on the project type. The total amount of funding expected to be distributed through this announcement is $8.5 million, with an estimated 35 awards anticipated. All funding is contingent upon federal appropriations and IMLS discretion. Questions regarding the program may be directed to IMLS at imls-librarygrants@imls.gov.

Clearly align with one of the program’s goals and objectives; develop a sound evaluation plan; ensure cost share is accurately reflected and documented.