FYThe Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) is the only federal program exclusively for libraries. It is administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). State libraries use the funds to support statewide initiatives and also distribute the funds through subgrants or cooperative agreements to public, school, academic, research, and special libraries. There is a requirement for a state match, which helps stimulate approximately three to four dollars for every federal dollar invested.
LSTA consolidates federal library programs while expanding services for learning and access to information resources in all types of libraries for individuals of all ages. LSTA links libraries electronically and helps provide users access to information through state, regional, national, and international networks. In many states, the state library network provides enriched content databases for information access to all in the state.
Around the country, knowledgeable librarians use LSTA funding to help patrons access essential information on a wide range of topics. They offer training on résumé development; help on web searches of job banks; workshops on career information; links to essential educational and community services; assistive devices for people with disabilities; family literacy classes; homework help and mentoring programs; information on religions and other cultures; access to government information; a forum for enhanced civic engagement; and so much more.
Every fiscal year, Congress provides funding for LSTA in the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill. Federal resources help target library services to people of diverse geographic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds, to individuals with disabilities, and to people with limited literacy skills.
Related
- FY 2017 Dear Appropriator Letter from Senators to Senate Subcommittee on LHHS Appropriations in support of $186.6 million for LSTA (March 17, 2016)
- FY 2017 Dear Appropriator Letter from Reps. to House Subcommittee on LHHS Appropriations in support of $186.6 million for LSTA (March 24, 2016)
- FY 2018 Dear Appropriator Letter from Reps. to House Subcommittee on LHHS Appropriations in support of $186.6 million for LSTA (April 6, 2017)
- FY 2018 Dear Appropriator Letter from Senators to Senate Subcommittee on LHHS Appropriations in support of $186.6 million for LSTA (May 25, 2017)
- FY 2019 Dear Appropriator Letter from Senators to Senate Subcommittee on LHHS Appropriations (April 13, 2018)
- FY 2019 Dear Appropriator Letter from Reps. to House Subcommittee on LHHS Appropriations (March 19, 2018)