Native Hawaiian Library Services Grants (2027)
🏛 Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)
✓ Free, no account · Source: Grants.gov · Last verified Sep 4, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for Native Hawaiian serving organizations that want to improve library services for their communities. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, libraries, and other organizations that primarily serve Native Hawaiian populations across the Hawaiian islands and beyond. Activities supported include developing library collections, expanding digital access, providing cultural programming, and enhancing information services that meet community needs. Geographic scope is national, with preference for organizations serving Native Hawaiian communities in Hawaii and the mainland.
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Program description
The Native Hawaiian Library Services (NH) program is designed to assist Native Hawaiian serving organizations in sustaining and improving library services with their communities. As information needs change, Native Hawaiian organizations must be able to serve as knowledge and resource centers to benefit their users and the wellness of their communities. The program supports organizations across the islands and country to address their individual information needs and priorities.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Demographic focus
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- Notice of Funding Opportunity (check for specific requirements)
- SF-424 (Application for Federal Assistance)
- Project Narrative/Statement of Need
- Budget and Budget Narrative
- Organizational documentation (501(c)(3) certification or tribal recognition)
- Letters of community support or partnership agreements
Program contact
- 👤 Institute of Museum and Library Services
- 📧 imls-librarygrants@imls.gov
- 📞 202-653-4634
Funding track record
No recent recipient data available for CFDA 45.311 in our database.
This can happen for newer programs, programs that use non-standard award types (loans, direct payments, fellowships), or those funded through sub-agencies under different codes.
Funding history
Annual funding for this program — Federal obligations (CFDA 45.311). How funding has trended year over year.
| 2024 | $5,908,056 | |
| 2025 | $5,641,893 | |
| 2026 est. | $5,950,000 |
FAQ
Who is eligible to apply for Native Hawaiian Library Services grants?
Native Hawaiian serving organizations, libraries, and nonprofits that primarily serve Native Hawaiian communities are eligible. Check the Notice of Funding Opportunity for complete eligibility criteria.
When is the deadline?
The deadline is November 13, 2026. This is a fixed deadline with no rolling submissions.
What can grant funds support?
Funds support library service improvements including collections, technology, programming, and resources that address community information needs and priorities.
Is cost sharing required?
No cost sharing or matching funds are required to apply.
What is the funding range?
Individual awards typically range from $50,000 to $150,000, with a total program pool of $750,000.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Research your community's information needs before writing. Clearly explain how your library services address specific Native Hawaiian community priorities.
- Highlight existing partnerships with tribal organizations, cultural centers, or other community groups that strengthen your application.
- Show measurable outcomes. Describe how you'll track usage, community participation, or information access improvements.
- Address cultural relevance. Explain how services incorporate Hawaiian language, cultural knowledge, or community values.
- Start early. Budget time to gather community input and letters of support from organizations you serve.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Applications fail when organizations don't clearly connect library services to Native Hawaiian community needs. Weak applications lack specific, measurable goals or evidence of community engagement in planning.
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