Library-School Partnership Request for Proposal (RFP)
Enhancing library access for youth and families through their local schools
LWB US is seeking to partner with public libraries across the United States to enhance access and usage for underserved youth and families through the creation of library access points within local schools.
Five selected partners will receive technical assistance spanning data collection and analysis, strategy and partnership development, project implementation and sustainability as well as supplies and materials up to $5,000 to support the direct costs of establishing and enhancing outreach and access within their local school system.
Application Process
Applications will be accepted through October 31, 2024.
See Library-School Partnership RFP for more details and submission instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Public libraries are trusted spaces that provide critical information, educational opportunities, and community resources for families and youth. Families and youth facing multiple barriers may not be able to access the valuable resources and services available at their local libraries.
By bringing the public library to schools, we break down these barriers and build familiarity, increasing access for youth and families while increasing the likelihood of continued engagement with their local library.
Strategies and solutions supported through this RFP may include awareness-building activities through the creation of library access points within schools, targeted outreach through school channels and engagement through school offerings and events, offering services and programming on-site in schools, and/or facilitating resource and collection sharing (for teachers/school staff as well as youth and families) between library and school systems.
LWB US is also interested in other ideas or opportunities proposed that will increase library access for underserved youth and families.
Applicants must be a Public Library or Public Library System (accessible by the general public and funded from public sources) operating within the United States.
Competitive applicants will:
- Serve a community with a high representation of underserved population/s.
- Demonstrate a commitment to community engagement through existing outreach efforts.
- Have an established partnership with local schools and/or a commitment from local school systems to partner through this project.
- Have dedicated staff capacity to actively engage in this project and continue implementation after the grant period.
- Indicate a commitment to sustaining and expanding successful efforts launched through this grant.
Selected partners will receive supplies and materials up to $5,000 to support the direct costs of establishing and enhancing outreach and access within their local school system. Funds will support costs such as equipment, supplies, materials, or other direct programs costs to building and implementing access points. Funds will not support staffing or other indirect program costs.
Other Questions?
See the Library-School Partnership RFP for more details and submission instructions. Additional questions regarding this RFP will be accepted through Friday, October 25, 2024, and can be directed to LWB US Executive Director Nina Safane at nina@librarieswithoutborders.us.