Native Hawaiian Library Services Grants (2026)

The Native Hawaiian Library Services Grants program, administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) through its Office of Library Services (OLS), provides targeted support for nonprofit organizations that primarily serve and represent Native Hawaiians. This funding opportunity reflects IMLS’s broader mission to empower libraries and museums across the United States through grantmaking, research, and policy development. It aligns with federal priorities to promote civic learning, cultural preservation, and equitable access to knowledge resources—particularly in underserved and Indigenous communities. This grant program is specifically designed to sustain and enhance library services in Native Hawaiian communities. Eligible applicants are nonprofit organizations that deliver library or archival services and meet the statutory definition of serving Native Hawaiians as defined in 20 U.S.C. § 7517(2). Funded projects are expected to develop, expand, or disseminate practices, models, or programs that address pressing community needs. The scope of eligible activities is broad and includes educational programming across all age groups, digital technology upgrades, institutional planning, professional training and mentorship, oral history collection, cultural and language preservation, and furnishing library spaces within existing facilities. However, construction activities are explicitly unallowable under this grant. Applicants must design projects that align with at least one of the four program objectives: serving the learning needs of the community, improving community well-being, ensuring access to and preservation of information and collections, or supporting services in times of emergency or disaster. The grant supports projects for up to two years, beginning on October 1, 2026, and ending no later than September 30, 2028. The total anticipated funding available is $750,000, with expected individual award amounts ranging from $50,000 to $150,000. No cost share is required, although it is permitted and must be honored if proposed. Up to five awards are anticipated under this NOFO, depending on the availability of funds and application quality. Applications are due via Grants.gov by April 10, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. Required components include a federal application form (SF-424S), program-specific information form, organizational profile, narrative, performance measurement plan, schedule of completion, budget form and justification, resumes of key staff, and proof of eligibility and nonprofit status. If applicable, documents such as indirect cost rate agreements or digital product plans must also be submitted. All materials must be uploaded in PDF format according to strict naming and ordering conventions. Evaluation of proposals involves a peer review process, guided by criteria including project alignment with program goals, feasibility of the work plan, appropriateness of resources, and strength of intended outcomes. Reviewers assess effectiveness, quality, and timeliness of the proposed activities, as well as plans for sustainability and dissemination. Projects that feature innovative partnerships, leverage local assets, and promote access to education, workforce development, or health services are particularly encouraged. Proposals must also demonstrate how stakeholders have been involved in planning and how their input will be integrated throughout the project. Award notifications are expected in September 2026, with project periods beginning in October. Contact information for further inquiries includes both programmatic and technical assistance through IMLS staff, SAM.gov, and Grants.gov. Applicants should also consider IMLS field-wide initiatives and are encouraged to align projects with broader federal priorities, including those promoting the commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary, AI education, and workforce development under applicable Executive Orders.

Align project to program objectives; include community input; clearly define performance outcomes and sustainability