Tag Archives: visits

Federal oversight for library funding

Posted on by

Since 1956, the federal government has supported library services through funding and grants. The focus has changed over the years from rural services to the current Library Services and Technology Act Grants to States program, through which the Institute of Museum and Library Services, a federal agency, provides grant funding to every U.S. state and territory to improve library services.

IMLS logo. The Grants to States program is the largest source of federal funding support for library services in the U.S., awarding $266.7 million in 2024 through research and policy development and grantmaking to advance, support and empower America’s museums, libraries and related organizations. Through a population-based formula, the Indiana State Library receives around $3 million in federal funding each year for library services and technology. In Indiana, LSTA funding is used to support numerous State Library services including INSPIRE databases, the Talking Books and Braille Library, the State Data Center, resource sharing and the InfoExpress courier service. Grants to local libraries have also been available in the past.

This money is not gifted negligently, and there is strict oversight to every penny of the funds distributed. In order to qualify for funding, the Indiana State Library must prepare a five year plan for the funds, and have their progress on the previous five year plan evaluated by an independent reviewer. The state must also complete interim and final financial reports, and must submit an annual report indicating how all funds were spent, their geographic reach and their impact on populations like children, adults and job seekers.

Additionally, all states participating are subject to a site visit by their state’s program officer, an IMLS staffer assigned to oversee their region. These visits typically include a visit to a state library, as well as a tour around the state so that the program officer can witness evidence of library funding in use. The Indiana State Library’s recently completed a site visit by program officers Dennis Nangle and Madison Bolls on Thursday, Sept. 4. Nangle had previously visited Indiana in person, and during this visit met virtually with ISL administration, the business department and programmatic staff to discuss compliance with the federal rules and regulations required for the funding. The visit went well and IMLS will follow up with recommendations for the state in awarding and managing future funds received.

This blog post was written by Jen Clifton, Library Development Office.

How’s 2025 going for you so far?

Posted on by

While a lot of us have already broken our New Year’s resolutions – or just didn’t bother making one this year – maybe I can give you a couple of suggestions to make your days seem a little better.

I work at the Indiana State Library, which is a beautifully-crafted work of art that I honestly feel privileged to walk into every day. But let’s be honest, no one wants to drive downtown; it’s busy and that scares “country folks.” However, if you come while all this construction is going on, you’re able to park in the parking garage across the street and bring your ticket in to be validated.

Now, let’s talk about how this field trip can benefit you! First, walk into the library and find a book, find a comfy seat, sit down and relax for a while. We don’t care how long you stay… as long as you’re out by 4:30 p.m., as I must go let my dog out.

Studies show that reading can reduce your stress levels by more than 60%. Reading also reduces muscle tension and reduces heart rate. Reading is also an excellent way to relax, so make it part of your bedtime ritual for better sleep.

Make 2025 about you. Try new things. Learn about cooking or meditation. You might just want to learn how to plant that herb garden you’ve always dreamed of. We have all these books and more hidden gems in the stacks waiting for you to come visit. Stop by the Circulation desk and say, “Hi.” We’ll be glad to see you.

This blog post was written by Rayjeana Duty, circulation supervisor, Indiana State Library.