LSTA Direct Grants to Libraries

Massachusetts uses LSTA funding to provide libraries with direct grants to meet the needs of their community. There were five LSTA direct grants awarded to libraries in the Second Congressional District in 2023 totaling $52,500.

Below are examples of direct grant funded projects in the Second Congressional District:

  • Forbes Library (Northampton) $7,500

    Forbes Library’s extensive collection of fine and decorative arts has been evolving more rapidly in recent years, out of its commitment to inclusive, diverse, and current collection development. The value of these acquisitions depends on them being accessible to users in and out of the library building. This project will improve access to the collection for both in-person and remote visitors. Accessible large-print labels with audio descriptions will be created and available for those engaging with the art collection in the physical library. High quality digital photographs of art and objects in the collection will be produced and included in the online Argus CMS portal, allowing visitors from around the world to engage with the collection.

  • Worcester Public Library $15,000

    Approximately 40% of Worcester residents speak a language other than English at home and about 10% of households are limited English speaking households. Worcester Public Library has taken a leadership role in serving immigrants, offering many programs and resources, including the Worcester Welcoming Network guide, a free listing of English and citizenship courses. This project will allow the Library to expand their services for New Americans in two significant ways. To meet the demand for referral requests, the Library will implement an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) navigator service at the Main branch to connect adult English learners with classes throughout the community based on their level of proficiency, schedule, access options, and budget. The project will also fill a known gap in ESOL courses in the City by providing a free TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) preparation course.