Federal Funding

The FY2022 appropriations process is underway. The Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) is the only source of dedicated federal funding for libraries. LSTA Grants to States ensure that every state has access to needed resources and authority to determine their use. Texas receives almost $12 million in LSTA funds, which are administered by the Texas State Library & Archives Commission.

The library community is advocating for funding of at least $209 million for LSTA for the FY2022 budget. This is a slight increase over FY2021 funding levels. We are also asking for $50 million to fund Innovative Approaches to Literacy (IAL) grants. These grants are administered by the federal Department of Education and provide age-appropriate books, parental engagement programs, and professional development for library experts to ensure children are best positioned for success.

Visit the American Library Association’s Fund Libraries page to learn more and take action to support library funding.  #FundLibraries

Build America’s Libraries Act

The Build America’s Libraries Act, which was introduced in Congress in January, would appropriate $5 billion for upgrades to the nation’s library infrastructure to address challenges such as natural disasters, COVID-19, broadband capacity, environmental hazards, and accessibility barriers. This groundbreaking legislation would pave the way for new and improved library facilities in underserved communities across the country. If funded at that level, Texas would receive $373 million.

Visit the American Library Association’s Build America’s Libraries page to learn more and take action.  #BuildLibraries