Mini-Pilot Reporting
As outlined in the Mini-Pilot Sub-Grantee Agreement, libraries must provide information and data to RAILS on project expenses and activities. This helps us ensure that your expenses and activities align with your project plan and the requirements of the program, shows the impact of your projects, and gives us important information on your experiences so we can make improvements in future funding opportunities. RAILS will review all documents and information submitted and will follow up with libraries as needed.
On this page, you'll find information about reporting requirements and how you can get help preparing the materials. Then proceed to the Mini-Pilot Reporting Instructions and Submission Forms page to complete and submit your form and file uploads.
Reporting Deadlines
- Wednesday, April 15, 2026
- Monday, June 15, 2026
Required Items
Your Mini-Pilot report has two required components: program activity data and financial data. See below for the types of information needed for each component. When you're ready, submit all your data on this page.
- Program activity information (online survey form)
- Device procurement, setup, and usage information
- Event descriptions and data
- Library technology infrastructure activities
- Marketing activities
- Library staff activities, patron stories, and program insights
- Financial logs (1-2 completed spreadsheet templates) and proof of purchase file uploads (documents for each expenditure)
- All items and services purchased with Mini-Pilot funds
- Copies of invoices, receipts, and other proof of purchase documentation
- Financial Templates:
Program Activity Form Worksheet
Download the Mini-Pilot Report Form Worksheet to read through the program activity form questions and collect notes before beginning in the online form.
Office Hours for Report Assistance
We are hosting Office Hours sessions to ask questions or get feedback on your report. Mini-Pilot participants are invited to one or more of these events.
Mini-Pilot reporting office hours schedule:
- Friday, April 3 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am -> View and register for event on L2
- Wednesday, April 8 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm -> View and register for event on L2
- Monday, April 13 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm -> View and register for event on L2
Help
If you have questions about any aspect of submitting the form or financial documents, contact Grant Halter, RAILS Data Analysis Manager, at grant.halter@railslibraries.org
If you have questions about the Cook County Digital Navigator Network project, contact Anne Slaughter, Director of Technology Services, at anne.slaughter@railslibraries.org.
Data Privacy
Libraries must protect any personal information they collect as part of the Mini‑Pilot and follow all applicable state and federal privacy laws. This includes collecting only what is needed, keeping data secure, clearly explaining how information is used, and getting permission before sharing personal information when required.
This project is being supported, in whole or in part, by the Cook County Equity Fund.