OLYMPIA — Washington State Library, a division of the Office of the Secretary of State, announced that more than $3.67 million will be made available to help public, academic, and tribal libraries and museums statewide.
The funding is part of the $200 million allocated in the American Rescue Plan Act to the Institute of Museum and Library Services in response to the continuing COVID-19 pandemic.
Washington State Library will award grants to help museums and libraries implement and sustain public health protocols, and defray technology, personnel, training, supplies, equipment, and other operating costs.
In addition, the grants will enable libraries and museums to enhance their digital-inclusion efforts, such as creating or expanding internet hotspots, Wi-Fi capabilities, and digital content and resources supporting education, health, and workforce development.
Beginning June 14, qualified libraries and museums are encouraged to apply online. For more information about ARPA funding, click here.
“Libraries and museums are critical to our communities’ vitality and well-being. Part of addressing the pandemic is to ensure they have the resources and bandwidth they need to deliver the important services people rely on every day,” said Washington State Librarian Sara Jones. “We thank the Institute of Museum and Library Services for helping make these grants possible, and we are grateful for the opportunity to support and help sustain our local libraries and museums.”
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 libraries and museums. We advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. Our vision is a nation where museums and libraries work together to transform the lives of individuals and communities. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
About the Office of the Secretary of State
Washington’s Office of the Secretary of State oversees a number of areas within state government, including managing state elections, registering corporations and charities, and governing the use of the state flag and state seal. The office also manages the State Archives and the State Library, documents extraordinary stories in Washington’s history through Legacy Washington, oversees the Combined Fund Drive for charitable giving by state employees, and administers the state’s Address Confidentiality Program to help protect survivors of crime.