Zip Books
Can you apply?
This grant is for California public libraries seeking funding to expand interlibrary loan services through the Zip Books program. Libraries request books not in their collection, which are purchased and shipped directly to patrons' homes. Libraries must be located in California.
Previously participating California public libraries have first priority. New libraries that haven't participated before may apply if funds remain available.
The program supports book purchasing and delivery costs. Libraries should budget based on past expenditures and capacity to spend funds within the grant period.
This grant is for California public libraries seeking funding to expand interlibrary loan services through the Zip Books program. Libraries request books not in their collection, which are purchased and shipped directly to patrons' homes. Libraries must be located in California.
Previously participating California public libraries have first priority. New libraries that haven't participated before may apply if funds remain available.
The program supports book purchasing and delivery costs. Libraries should budget based on past expenditures and capacity to spend funds within the grant period.
Program description
About the Program The Zip Books program is an alternative model for interlibrary loan service that bridges the gaps between a library’s patron request service, a normal acquisitions process, and an outreach/home delivery service. It is based on a project called “Zip Books—Digital Library of Northern California,” conducted by the Butte, Shasta, and Humboldt County Libraries under a FY 2011/12 LSTA grant from the California State Library. The Zip Books program is currently supported with California Library Services Act funds from the state of California. Under the Zip Books program, patrons request books that the library does not own. The library then orders the book from Amazon, and the book is shipped directly to the patron’s home. When the patron is finished with the book, the book is returned to the library and added to the collection. Eligibility and Funding Priority Priority for funding the Zip Books program is as follows: · All California public libraries that have previously participated in the Zip Books program will have first priority. · All new requests from California public libraries that have not participated in the Zip Books program before will be considered if funds are available. Grant Amount All California public libraries can apply for up to $35,000. Libraries should consider past program expenditures and apply for funds they can expend within the grant period. We are unable to confirm exact funding amounts until all requests have been received. Match Requirements: There are no match requirements for Zip Books, though it is expected that libraries provide staff time to run the program.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Details
This grant is for California public libraries seeking funding to expand interlibrary loan services through the Zip Books program. Libraries request books not in their collection, which are purchased and shipped directly to patrons' homes. Libraries must be located in California.
Previously participating California public libraries have first priority. New libraries that haven't participated before may apply if funds remain available.
The program supports book purchasing and delivery costs. Libraries should budget based on past expenditures and capacity to spend funds within the grant period.
How to apply
Application links
Program contact
- 📧 zipbooks@library.ca.gov
- 📞 1-916-603-7159
Funding track record
Past applications & awards under this program (California Grants Portal) — how competitive it is.
By fiscal year
| Fiscal year | Applications | Awarded | Award rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-2023 | 99 | 96 | 97% |
Source: California Grants Portal
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