My Library Is ... Grant

Examples

Below are examples of types of projects RAILS is interested in funding. This is not, by any means, an exhaustive list. We welcome creativity and innovation and will consider both in the decision-making process. As mentioned above, all projects must incorporate EDI principles and applicants must demonstrate the impact these projects will have on diverse audiences.

• Projects that help promote the role of library workers in material selection
• Design and/or print projects that help demonstrate the role of the library
• Purchasing new technologies that support the work of the library in reaching new audiences
• Media projects that demonstrate the value of the library or showcase specific programs, services, or audiences
• Working with a marketing consultant to do a marketing audit, assessment, or developing collateral such as templates images and logos for your library
• See more examples of various My Library Is... Grant projects at the My Library Is... website blog.

Restrictions

The following types of projects will not be considered for RAILS' My Library Is... Grants:

• Individual author visits, book fairs, conference/seminars, or any other one-time events that do not correspond with an ongoing promotional effort.
• Building projects, vehicles, or purchases of furniture; please note that projects that include promotion/marketing of these materials may be considered, but funds cannot be used for construction costs or the physical materials themselves.
• Requests for reimbursement of staff-time, wages or salaries.
• Purchases of alcohol, gifts, or catering for events.

Consider applying for the RAILS Continuing Education Event grant.

Grant Conditions

All conditions must be met to be considered for this award:

• At least one project partner must be a RAILS library; the RAILS library must also be the fiscal agent for the grant application; the fiscal agent will receive the check for any awarded funds
• The amount requested cannot exceed $5,000.
• Grant recipients must submit a formal grant report within 30 days after the completion of grant activities. RAILS will provide a template to the primary contact after the grant proposal has been accepted.
• A copy of relevant invoices must be sent with the completed grant report.
• Any unused funds must be returned to RAILS upon completion of the grant.
• RAILS will not assist in funding costs associated with items deemed non-essential to the project, including but not limited to food and gifts.
• RAILS is authorized to promote the projects of all grant recipients through the RAILS website, social media, RAILS E-News, and other sources. Libraries are responsible for providing RAILS with information for publicity purposes.
• Grant recipients are required to acknowledge RAILS financial support of their grant in any promotional activities.
• Grant recipients must commit to making project products or outputs available for reuse under a Creative Commons license or otherwise freely available.
• Grant recipients will be required to write a My Library Is… blog post, giving a brief overview of their project and the impact it had on diverse student audiences.
• Grant recipients may be asked to participate in either a RAILS Member Update or a Sparks podcast event to give an overview of their project.