As a result of increased funding from the State of Minnesota, Metronet is able to offer mini-grants to member libraries to help libraries expand collections, offer innovative programming, assist with program expenses, and more. Please take advantage of this opportunity.
Grants are open to all Metronet member libraries public, school, academic, and special. All member libraries are eligible to apply for a grant of up to $1,000. Libraries may apply for one grant per fiscal year. In large systems or districts, the grant should be submitted at the building level. Metronet reserves the right to decide the number of grants made to large systems or districts.
These grants are not designed to solve a library’s problems; they are designed to increase collaboration, give seed money for an idea, or supplement a budget with something ‘extra.’ The grants can be used to enhance library spaces, services, programming, create connections, improve staff performance through continuing education, or other efforts that will benefit library users at the individual library/building level.
There are three grant categories:
- Programming & Materials Grants* | These grants support programming in libraries, especially programming involving more than one type of library. This includes author/illustrator speakers, outreach programs, school/public library programming, and similar. Funds may be used to create events, plan programs, purchase physical items or create marketing materials that support programming. Libraries may apply in this category for equipment or materials that enhance the library space or support ongoing or new programming. Application
- Group CE Grants | Libraries wishing to have speakers or other staff development activities for all or groups of staff may apply for assistance with funding. Examples include sessions offered via Library 2.0, News Literacy Project, LJ/SLJ, ALA, CORE, or other providers. This can include customization of training and purchase of group registration fees for online webinars for staff development or materials required for participation. Limit of one grant per system or district.. Individuals seeking training support should apply for a Metronet CE scholarship. Application
- School Library Collection Development Focused on Diversity | This grant is limited to $500. Metronet will consider applications to purchase books and materials that enhance student access to materials that reflect their experiences and cultures. The grants must augment local budgets of school library media programs, not replace the materials budget. A licensed school librarian must do the book selection in a library that meets the new definition of a school library. Application
Guidelines for All Grants
- Funding is on a first come, first served basis. Program expires when money is allocated for the year.
- Libraries may apply for one grant per fiscal year.
- Libraries are encouraged to develop programs involving more than one type of library.
- All grants are reimbursable expenses. Libraries pay for speakers/presenters fees, supplies, materials, books, and all other expenses up front and submit paid receipts and an evaluation to Metronet for reimbursement.
- No fees will be reimbursed without receipts or a completed evaluation on the form provided.
- Eligible expenses vary depending on the grant, but may include speaker/performer fees, supplies, light refreshments, books, transportation, marketing materials, and other grant related expenses. Questions about eligible expenses should be addressed to [email protected]
- An evaluation must be completed prior to reimbursement.
- A letter to appropriate MN legislators representing the library’s area is required. The letter should thank legislators for the increased funding to multicounty multitype library systems in the 2023 legislative session that allows for these grants. A copy of the letter must be included in the Evaluation.
- When possible, credit Metronet in programs or materials.
- Work/activities/purchases must be completed by May 31, 2025.
- While grant applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis, grant applications should be received no later than April 15, 2025 so that activities can be completed by May 31, 2025.
- Grant applications will be reviewed by a Metronet board committee.
- Applicants will be notified of acceptance 7-10 days after receipt of the application.
- Metronet Board members may schedule visits to libraries receiving the grants.
Questions regarding this program should be directed to [email protected] with New Grant Program Question in the subject line.