Special Projects Grant

The Special Projects Grant is administered by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission through its Library Development and Networking Division. This program is funded through the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services under the Library Services and Technology Act Grants to States program. The initiative is designed to strengthen library services across Texas by supporting innovative projects that expand access and improve service delivery, particularly for underserved populations. The grant reflects statewide priorities to enhance digital access, promote literacy and workforce readiness, and ensure that library staff are equipped to meet evolving community needs. The primary purpose of the Special Projects Grant is to fund projects that significantly expand library services to reach all members of a community, especially individuals who face barriers to accessing library resources. These may include populations with special needs or those who encounter challenges in using traditional library services. The program strongly encourages proposals that emphasize community engagement and collaboration with local organizations, thereby increasing the reach and impact of library services. However, the grant explicitly excludes projects focused primarily on collection development or general acquisition of library materials, except where directly tied to programmatic service delivery. Funding for this program is competitive, with approximately 750000 dollars available in total funding for the grant cycle. Individual awards may not exceed 75000 dollars per year, and projects are initially funded for a one-year period. The grant period for this cycle runs from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027. Applicants who demonstrate success may apply for continued funding for up to two additional consecutive years, though continued funding is not guaranteed and requires reapplication and reevaluation. Allowable expenses include staffing, equipment, supplies, professional services, and other necessary operational costs, provided they align with Texas Grant Management Standards. The program does not require cost sharing or matching funds. Eligibility is limited to accredited public libraries in Texas, library systems, members of the TexShare Library Consortium, and nonprofit organizations applying on behalf of eligible libraries. Nonprofits must demonstrate that their mission includes direct support of library services. Applicants may submit only one proposal per funding cycle. The program allows a wide range of eligible expenses but prohibits certain costs, including construction, renovation, food, prizes, unrelated technology purchases, and entertainment-focused programming. Equipment purchases exceeding 10000 dollars per unit require prior approval. Applications must be submitted through the Texas State Library and Archives Commission Grant Management System by the stated deadline. Required components include a signed application certification form, a program narrative and budget, a Children’s Internet Protection Act certification form, and letters of cooperation for collaborative projects. Applicants are encouraged to consult with program staff during proposal development and may submit draft applications for feedback prior to the deadline. Additional requirements include obtaining a Unique Entity ID through SAM.gov and ensuring proper authorization signatures. The evaluation process is competitive and based on a structured scoring rubric totaling 100 points across eight criteria, including needs assessment, program design, project impact, personnel, timetable, evaluation methods, budget justification, and sustainability. Additional points may be awarded to libraries serving smaller populations or those that have not received recent funding. Applications are reviewed by agency staff and a peer review panel, with final funding decisions made by the commission in a public meeting. The application deadline for this funding cycle is February 9, 2026. Following submission, applications are reviewed between February and April, with recommendations announced in April and final approval in June. Projects begin July 1, 2026. The program appears to operate on an annual cycle tied to the state fiscal year, suggesting recurring opportunities. Applicants may contact the grants team at the Texas State Library and Archives Commission via email or phone for assistance throughout the application process.

Strong needs assessment with data; Emphasize collaboration; Align clearly with LSTA goals; Provide measurable outcomes and evaluation methods; Ensure budget justification aligns with project goals