National Leadership Grants for Libraries (2027)

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is soliciting applications for the FY 2027 National Leadership Grants for Libraries (NLG‑L). The program provides discretionary grant funding to libraries, archives, and related institutions to advance adult literacy, health and financial literacy, historic and archival programming, digital innovation, community prosperity, emergency services, and collaborative partnerships. Awards range from $25,000 to $1 million, with a total anticipated funding pool of $11.5 million across roughly 45 projects. Projects may run 1–3 years, beginning August 1 2027, and must be submitted via Grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. ET on November 13 2026. Eligible applicants include public, school, tribal, academic, and nonprofit libraries or archives, as well as consortia and affiliated nonprofit organizations located in the United States or its territories. • Funding amount per award: $25 k–$1 M (typical ranges $75 k–$200 k for most types). • Project periods: 1–3 years (performance period Aug 1 2027 – Jul 31 2030). • Eligible entities: State, local, tribal government units; private nonprofit libraries/archives; digital libraries; consortia; nonprofit affiliates. • Emphasis areas: historic/archival projects, adult/health/financial literacy, AI‑enhanced services, disaster response, workforce connections, community‑centered programming. • Required registrations: active SAM.gov UEI and Grants.gov account. • Cost‑share: varies by award type; most types require none, National Implementation > $299,999 requires 1:1 cost share. • Anticipated award notice: July 2027; project start: Aug 1 2027.