Peggy Barber Tribute Grant

The Peggy Barber Tribute Grant is an annual initiative administered by the American Library Association (ALA) to support meaningful public programming in libraries that face limited or no access to dedicated programming budgets. Established in honor of Peggy Barber, a transformative leader in the library world and founder of iconic initiatives like National Library Week and the Celebrity READ series, the grant aims to reduce financial barriers and enable innovative programming that strengthens the role of libraries as vital community institutions. For the 2025–2026 cycle, the grant focuses on programming that reinforces the concept of libraries as “third spaces”—public areas where community members can connect beyond home and work environments. Applicants are encouraged to design and propose programs that promote communal engagement and foster connections among individuals within their localities. Sample program ideas include intergenerational gardening projects, play-based series for adults, or collaborative visual arts performances with local theater groups. A key requirement is demonstrating how the proposed programming will help people share space and engage with one another in meaningful ways. Three grants of $2,500 each will be awarded to libraries across the United States or its territories. The funds may be used exclusively for program-related expenses, such as materials and supplies, promotional efforts, staff time, or compensating collaborators like instructors or facilitators. Indirect costs and donations to other organizations are explicitly excluded. Grant recipients will be required to appoint a project director, carry out evaluation measures, and submit a comprehensive final report, including outcomes and a written program model for potential publication on ALA’s ProgrammingLibrarian.org. Eligibility is limited to libraries with current memberships in either the American Library Association or the Association for Rural & Small Libraries. Libraries of all types are welcome to apply, provided they can demonstrate a programming-related need and submit a complete application by the specified deadline. Only applications submitted through the ALA's online grants management system by February 2, 2026, at 11:59 pm Central Time will be considered. First-time applicants are encouraged to review the “How to Apply” guidelines or reach out for accessibility support. The application process involves submitting detailed narrative responses about the library and community context, program goals, budget justifications, and evaluation strategies. Applicants may also upload optional letters of support or supplementary materials. Each application is reviewed by a selection committee composed of five ALA members, including a chair appointed by the Public and Cultural Programs Advisory Committee (PCPAC). Selections are made based on demonstrated financial need, program creativity, clarity, feasibility, and community impact. Successful applicants will be notified by March 20, 2026. Grant funds will be disbursed by April 30, 2026, and projects may span either one or two years, starting May 1, 2026, and ending no later than April 30, 2028. Final reports must be submitted within 30 days after the project concludes. The ALA Public Programs Office remains available for questions and support throughout the process, and can be contacted via phone or email as listed in the grant documentation.

Clearly describe how the program will foster community connection; explain funding need; ensure goals and evaluation are well-articulated.