Foundation Center has launched Visualizing Funding for Libraries, a comprehensive database of library funding containing grants given to U.S. libraries by U.S. foundations. You can find a great introduction to this powerful, free tool on WebJunction’s archived webinar, “Visualizing (and Finding!) Funding for Libraries.”
Libraries, as community-connectors providing critical outreach and resources, can use this searchable data visualization tool to find foundation grants to fill gaps in government budget cuts, diversify funding sources, and expand programming. Library advocates, foundations, and nonprofits can also use it to understand the funding landscape. A search of the tool will quickly reveal:
- Local, state, and national sources of funding for public, academic, school, special collection, and government libraries
- Demographic information corresponding with library service area
- Regional funding trends
Because many libraries lack grant-seeking experience, Foundation Center will offer free capacity-building training, including:
- Webinars that demonstrate how to use the mapping tool and grant-seeking basics
- A self-paced online course, ideal for libraries with limited resources
- In-person events with Foundation Center’s partners, including select Funding Information Network locations nationwide
The Visualizing Funding for Libraries project is a winner of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation’s 2016 Knight News Challenge on Libraries, which funds breakthrough ideas that help libraries serve 21st century information needs.