Native American Library Services Enhancement Grants (2026)

The Native American Library Services Enhancement Grants program is administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), a federal agency with a mission to advance, support, and empower America’s museums and libraries. Specifically, the Office of Library Services (OLS) under IMLS facilitates this program to strengthen library and archival services among Native American Tribes and Alaska Native villages, regional corporations, and village corporations. The Enhancement Grants aim to provide financial support to projects that enrich access to information and improve library services, with an emphasis on preserving cultural heritage, increasing educational programming, and enhancing community well-being. For the fiscal year 2026, IMLS has made $3.5 million available for this program, with anticipated awards ranging between $50,000 and $150,000, and an average historical award of $130,000. A total of approximately 25 awards are expected to be made. Eligible applicants must be federally recognized Tribes or Alaska Native entities that offer library or archival services to their communities. These services may include free access to books, electronic media, research databases, employment resources, reference services, public programming, and study spaces. Only one application per Tribe is allowed under this program, although Tribes may submit applications to other IMLS grant programs for distinct projects. Projects funded by this program may include a wide range of activities, such as developing educational programming across age groups, digitizing cultural materials, expanding digital services, collecting and preserving oral histories, supporting community wellness initiatives, furnishing library spaces, and facilitating professional training and mentorships. Funding may also be used for language and cultural preservation projects, strategic planning, and collaboration with cultural practitioners. Construction activities, however, are not eligible costs under this grant. While cost share is allowed, it is not required, and including it does not influence the application’s competitiveness during the review process. The application process is managed through Grants.gov, and applications must be submitted no later than 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on April 10, 2026. Required components include the SF-424S form, a Tribal Profile, a narrative describing the project, a schedule of completion, a performance measurement plan, an IMLS budget form, and resumes of key staff. Conditionally required documents include a Federally Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (if applicable) and a Digital Products Plan if the project involves creation of digital content. Applications must be complete and meet all eligibility criteria to be considered. Late or incomplete submissions will not be reviewed. Evaluation of applications will involve peer reviewers with expertise in relevant areas. Reviewers will assess alignment with program goals, quality and feasibility of the work plan, and the relevance and clarity of expected results. The review will consider the effectiveness, quality, and timeliness of proposed activities, and projects must demonstrate how they will serve community needs, produce measurable results, and sustain benefits beyond the award period. The performance period for awarded projects will be between one to two years, starting October 1, 2026, and ending no later than September 30, 2028. Applicants can expect notification of award decisions by September 2026. For questions or assistance, applicants are encouraged to contact IMLS staff via phone or email. Additionally, recorded webinars and detailed application instructions are available to support the submission process. This program is part of IMLS’s broader effort to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence by supporting libraries that educate, preserve history, and strengthen community connections.

Follow file naming and formatting rules strictly; contact IMLS with eligibility questions early; ensure all components are submitted before deadline.