FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 10, 2008

IMLS Press Contacts
202-653-4632
Jeannine Mjoseth, jmjoseth@imls.gov

More Than $1.2 Million Awarded to Native American Libraries;
209 Tribes Served

Washington, DC—On June 10, the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) awarded Native American tribes across the United States $1.22 million dollars to improve and sustain their library services. The grant monies will be distributed among 209 tribes, and will bolster library services offered by Native American tribal communities and Alaskan Native villages. Click here to see a list of recipients.

This year, 34 applicants were awarded $5,000 basic grants, totaling $170,000. These grants are intended to support existing library operations and maintain core library services. Basic grants with the additional education/assessment option – worth $6,000 each – were awarded to 167 applicants, representing 175 tribes, for a total of $1,050,000. The education/assessment option supports the hiring and training of library staff, consultations from outside professionals for on-site library assessments, and allows librarians to take continuing education courses, travel to give presentations, and attend conferences. No cost sharing is required for either of these grant categories.

“As repositories of history, as well as places to learn and interact, libraries play an important role in all communities,” said Anne-Imelda M. Radice, Ph.D., Director of IMLS. “The Native American Library Services Grants offer libraries in Native American and Alaskan communities the opportunity to strengthen essential library services and develop new programs. The education/assessment option ensures that library staff is trained to assist patrons and preserve their past for future generations.”

In addition to the basic grant program, IMLS also administers the Native American Library Services Enhancement grant program. To be eligible for these grants, an institution must have applied for a Native American Library Services Basic Grant in the same fiscal year. Enhancement grant recipients may receive up to $150,000. These awards will be announced September 2008.

The next deadline for the Native American Library Services Basic Grants is March 3, 2009. For more information, click here.

About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s 122,000 libraries and 17,500 museums. The Institute's mission is to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas. The Institute works at the national level and in coordination with state and local organizations to sustain heritage, culture, and knowledge; enhance learning and innovation; and support professional development. To learn more about the Institute, please visit www.imls.gov.