Framingham State University’s Whittemore Library aims to become a hub of civic engagement during the upcoming academic year with help from a $7,500 federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC).  

The project will include the production of podcasts and videos that engage students in civic issues by interviewing them and thought leaders in the community; the creation of a student photo exhibit of scenes that explore current political issues; lectures and panel discussions on the state of democracy in America; racial healing training; and much more. These activities will commence in October and will coincide with the Presidential campaign this November.

“This is an exciting opportunity to engage our students in important civic issues, like the first amendment, climate change and racism, during an election year,” says Millie Gonzalez, interim Dean of Whittemore Library. “We are grateful to the MBLC for its support of this ambitious initiative.”

The MBLC developed this direct grant program using federal funding to help libraries meet local community needs including programs that help New Americans learn English and become citizens, STEM and STEAM projects, programs that serve teen needs, and projects that preserve valuable historical documents. The MBLC also offers grants to increase access to library services for people with disabilities. 

“We are proud to deliver grant funding to libraries for projects that fill unique needs of libraries across Massachusetts.” said Rob Favini, Head of Library Advisory and Development at the MBLC. “Libraries continue to be a vital resource to the communities they serve. Programs funded through LSTA grants illustrate the diverse range of topics and audiences served by Massachusetts libraries.”

In addition to the direct library grant program, the MBLC uses LSTA funds to support statewide programs and services including summer reading programs, research databases, the statewide eBook program, the Commonwealth Catalog and mass.gov/libraries which has information and resources for residents.  LSTA is administered on the federal level by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and in the Commonwealth by the MBLC. More information about LSTA can be found on Board's website at www.mass.gov/mblc.

About IMLS
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s approximately 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, Twitter  and Instagram.