Native American Library Services Enhancement 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 federally-recognized Native American tribes and tribal governments that operate libraries serving their communities. Eligible applicants include tribal library organizations and Native communities seeking to enhance library services. The program supports projects that improve information access and community wellness through library programming and resources. Geographic scope covers all federally-recognized tribes nationwide.
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Program description
The Native American Library Services Enhancement Grants program (NAE) assists eligible Native Communities in sustaining and improving library services with their communities. As information needs change, Tribal libraries must be able to serve as knowledge and resource centers to benefit their users and the wellness of their communities. The program supports Native Communities across the 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
- Application form (per IMLS guidelines)
- Project Narrative
- Budget and Budget Narrative
- Tribal Resolution or Board approval
- Evidence of tribal eligibility/federal recognition
- Community needs assessment or data
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 can apply for this grant?
Federally-recognized Native American tribes and tribal library organizations. Your tribe must have a library or formal plan to establish one.
When is the deadline?
The deadline is November 13, 2026. This is a fixed deadline, not rolling.
What types of activities are funded?
Library services enhancement including programs, resources, technology, and initiatives that serve community information needs and wellness.
What is the typical award size?
Awards range from $50,000 to $150,000. The total program funding is $3.5 million.
Is cost-sharing required?
No. This grant does not require matching funds or cost-sharing from applicants.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Start with your tribal community's information needs assessment before developing your project. Document what services gap you're addressing.
- Emphasize how your library project supports broader community wellness, health, education, or cultural goals beyond traditional library services.
- Detail how your library will sustain improvements beyond the grant period. Sustainability planning is key to competitive applications.
- Connect your project to tribal priorities or strategic plans. Reviewers favor applications aligned with community self-determination.
- Budget your time generously for narrative writing. Clearly explain how your project serves your specific community context.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Weak connection between project activities and community information needs. Vague sustainability plan that doesn't show how benefits continue after grant funding ends. Insufficient detail about how your library currently serves community or what will change with this grant.
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