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IMLS Announces Nearly $3 Million in Grants for a Stronger Librarian Workforce

Washington, DC—The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) today announced $2,985,512 in grants aimed at recruiting and educating the next generation of librarians, faculty, and library leaders.

The grants were awarded through the Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program.  Friday’s announcements represent the final awards in the 2016 fiscal year. Information on other LB21 recipients in 2016 can be found on the IMLS website.

“Libraries serve as catalysts of change in their communities,” said IMLS Director Dr. Kathryn K. Matthew. “The Institute of Museum and Library Services is proud to invest in work that is bringing new models, tools, and research online and supporting projects that will help librarians train and evolve to meet the demands of today’s information society.”

This year’s award recipients includes funding for the following projects:

• Through a national forum, the University of Pittsburgh School of Information Sciences will convene a group of experts from inside and outside the library community to articulate a vision and roadmap for data science in libraries. The project will focus on both skills and management gaps and will bring together diverse constituencies to discuss opportunities for coordination and collaboration.

• The University of Maryland iSchool will expand the Lilead Fellows Program which currently provides professional development to librarians using strengths-based leadership, transformational change, effective communication, and evidence-based practice. Using lessons learned from the current single cohort program, the iSchool will create a sustainable program for all leaders in school libraries across the country. It will feature online professional development for school library leaders and a second cohort of 25 library supervisors who seek to be activists and advocates for school libraries at the district level.

For the complete list of Friday's award recipients, visit the IMLS website.

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 123,000 libraries and 35,000 museums. Our mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. Our grant making, policy development, and research help libraries and museums deliver valuable services that make it possible for communities and individuals to thrive. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.