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From the State LibraryARPA Outreach Grants AwardedThe State Library of Ohio Board has awarded $2,306,129 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Outreach Grants to 45 institutions. The purpose of the ARPA Outreach Grant initiative is to assist libraries and their communities as they respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as address economic and community needs resulting from the pandemic through equitable approaches. Utilizing Federal ARPA funds received from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), Ohio libraries of all types to were encouraged to submit proposals for this competitive grant program revolving around the concept of outreach. Applications were accepted in three categories: Outreach and Education, Community Connections, and Outreach Initiatives. “The unique opportunity that has been afforded to libraries thanks to ARPA grants has allowed libraries to respond to the needs of their own communities in exciting and innovative ways,” expressed Dr. Tracy Nájera, State Library Board President. “As each community found new needs as a result of the pandemic, libraries have adapted to the new environment and continued to find ways to reach and serve their patrons." “Libraries intend to respond to community needs in a variety of ways,” said Evan T. Struble, Associate State Librarian for Library Development. “Applicants identified the need for outreach vehicles, 24/7 reserve materials lockers, Story Walks, additional library materials and ebooks, and so much more. I can’t wait for these projects to get off the ground.” “Whether through technology or more traditional tools, libraries have once again risen to the occasion, and been an anchor for their communities throughout the pandemic and as we rebuild a new way of doing things," stated Wendy Knapp, State Librarian of Ohio. ARPA Outreach Grants Awarded
“I’m grateful to the State Library Board for their support of these varied projects,” Struble expressed. “With more than 2.3 million dollars in ARPA Outreach Grants awarded, the State Library has made history with a grant initiative of this size and scope.” This grant initiative is just one of the many ways the State Library of Ohio is supporting libraries of all types with ARPA stimulus funds and assisting Ohioans as they continue to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. Information about ARPA and the State Library of Ohio is available at https://library.ohio.gov/arpa/. Join the ARPA-OH announcement list to receive news and information about American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) library initiatives and programs in Ohio supported through the Institute of Museum and Library Services and administered by the State Library of Ohio. ODNFest We’re on the cusp of October and ODNFest is less than 3 weeks away! So, before you head on out to your local pumpkin patch, take a moment to check out our great lineup of sessions and register for this free and virtual event held on Tuesday October 19th.
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