Support for statewide services to all Kentucky public libraries and startup funding for innovative projects is provided through the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA). The federal program has two broad purposes: to encourage library technology and networking among all types of libraries; and to provide assistance to the under-served and rural areas.
These federal funds are administered by the Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives. Cooperation among libraries is a major theme of the subgrant program supported by LSTA funds. Several of the competitive or discretionary grants are funded through the LSTA subgrant program.
While state aid grants are awarded to every public library as long as the state legislature continues to appropriate the funds, KDLA also offers various competitive and/or discretionary grants. Each grant opportunity is announced well in advance of the respective deadline and libraries are urged to apply. Many grants require some percentage of local match, others do not. Subject emphasis varies and is based on projects to improve and update library services and facilities.
For additional information on grants, see Funding for Libraries.
Local Records Grants provide funds to local government agencies to improve their record-keeping practices and to preserve the information as a strategic resource. Local Records Grants are competitive.