State Library of Ohio Library Services and Technology Act Competitive Grants

The State Library of Ohio administers the LSTA Competitive Grant program, which provides federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funds to strengthen the ability of Ohio libraries to serve their communities. This grant initiative is aligned with Ohio’s LSTA Five Year Plan for 2023 through 2027 and supports innovative projects that address the evolving needs of library users across the state. The program reflects the State Library’s recognition that libraries serve as essential community anchors and agents of change, continually developing resources and methods that improve the lives of residents. The Competitive Grant focuses on three central priority areas: library as community anchor, literacy, and outreach and engagement. Projects under the community anchor category are intended to highlight and expand the library’s role in civic engagement, workforce development, social and mental well-being, and economic support. The literacy category emphasizes the library’s contribution to multiple forms of literacy, including early childhood, adult, digital, health, financial, and functional literacy. The outreach and engagement category encourages libraries to expand services outside their facilities, often through new partnerships, to reach populations that have traditionally been underserved. Funding under this program allows applicants to request up to $50,000 in federal support. Each project requires a 25 percent local cash match, based on the total cost of the project. This requirement underscores the expectation that libraries invest their own resources alongside federal dollars to ensure sustainability and commitment to the project. The funding is flexible within the three outlined areas but must demonstrate clear alignment with the statewide LSTA priorities and community needs. Eligibility for the program is limited to libraries within Ohio. The State Library encourages proposals that demonstrate innovation, responsiveness to community needs, and measurable outcomes. Applicants must show how their projects contribute to long-term improvements in library service, community engagement, and learning opportunities. There are no indications that other entities such as nonprofits, municipalities, or educational institutions outside the library system are eligible, so eligibility is specific to Ohio libraries. The application period for the 2025 cycle opens on August 18, 2025, and closes at 11:59 p.m. on October 20, 2025. Applications must be submitted electronically through the State Library’s designated system by this deadline. Applicants should carefully prepare their proposals to align with the program’s focus areas, funding rules, and match requirements. There is no mention of pre-application requirements, letters of intent, or separate question deadlines, so the final submission deadline governs the process. The program is recurring, with grants awarded on an annual basis. While the current deadline applies to the 2025 funding cycle, interested libraries can expect similar opportunities in future years. All inquiries and applications are directed to the State Library of Ohio, located at 274 E. First Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43201. The main contact phone number provided for assistance is 614-644-7061. No specific email or individual contact is listed for this funding opportunity. Applicants are encouraged to consult the State Library’s official website for full details, frequently asked questions, and past awardee information.