Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program (2027)

The Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program (LB21-FY27) is a grant initiative administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services designed to strengthen the library and archival workforce. The program focuses on the recruitment, development, and retention of professionals by supporting innovative pathways into the field, alternative credentialing, and the use of cutting-edge tools for continuing education. Funding is available for various project types, including Planning, Forum, Community-Centered Implementation, National Implementation, Early Career Research, and Applied Research, with individual award ranges spanning from 25,000 dollars to 1,000,000 dollars. The total expected funding for this announcement is 8,500,000 dollars, and requests exceeding 299,999 dollars require at least a 1:1 cost share. Eligible applicants must maintain active registrations in the System for Award Management and Grants.gov, and possess a Unique Entity Identifier. Applications are due by November 13, 2026, and must be submitted via the Grants.gov Workspace in PDF format. The anticipated period of performance runs from August 1, 2027, through July 31, 2030, with project durations lasting one to three years. Proposals are evaluated based on the clarity of the identified need, the quality of the work plan, the experience of key personnel, and the potential for project results to be adaptable and sustainable. Awardees are required to manage performance and financial reporting through the eGMS Reach system and adhere to federal conflict of interest and wage documentation standards.