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Building Forward Library Improvements Grant Program: Round Two

CA State Library · 25757

Eligibility details

Applications may be submitted by cities, counties, or special library districts. Library-related nonprofit organizations are not eligible to apply. One application per facility will be accepted. Organizations seeking funding for multiple facilities must submit one application for each site. The maximum award per site is $10 million. Facilities that benefited from Round One funding are eligible for apply for funding for new projects in Round Two.

Matching funds & resources

Source matching-funds field: 50%. Grantees will be required to provide matching funds on a dollar-for-dollar basis. This requirement may be reduced based on the Local Operating Income Per Capita (LIPC) for the library facility. Applicants seeking a reduction in the required match will be required to submit a justification as part of the application. In kind contributions do not count toward the required match.

Matching funds and leveraged resources are different requirements. Read the description and reviewed rules below before determining resource commitments.

About this opportunity

The Building Forward Grant Program has been the largest investment made by the state in California’s public libraries. For Round Two, approximately $175 million is available to fund capital projects for public library buildings that address critical maintenance needs, improve energy efficiency and sustainability, and expand access physically and digitally. This competitive grant program prioritizes funding for library facilities in high poverty areas. The maximum grant amount per library facility is $10 million. Projects funded by this grant must be completed according to California Building Standards Code and all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, ordinances, and policies. If a library facility is leased, a commitment of at least 10 years following project completion is required. A dollar-for-dollar cash match is required. This requirement may be reduced based on the Local Operating Income Per Capita (LIPC) for the library facility. Applicants seeking a reduction in the required match will be required to submit a justification as part of the application. Round Two grant and local match funds must be fully expended by June 30, 2027. Note: Both the Grant Guidelines and the Grant Application for Round Two have changed significantly from Round One. It is strongly recommended that perspective applicants read the grant guidelines thoroughly before applying.

Funding geography: Cities, counties, and library districts throughout California. Funding will be prioritized for projects serving high poverty areas, as determined by the California Poverty Measure (CPM).

Funding instrument: Grant. Issuing jurisdiction: California. This is not a geographic eligibility determination.