CAP Grant Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions about the TSLAC CAP Grant Program

Do you have a question about the TSLAC CAP Grant Program? Please read over the following frequently asked questions around our grant program. If you question is not answered please contact 

TSLAC CAP FAQ

       How can my library use the CAP grant funds? 

Community Advancement Packages (CAP) are designed to help libraries respond directly to identified community needs through the purchase of items that will support and advance community development through library sponsored programming and services. Each Community Advancement Package (CAP) is designed to include eligible items that will assist libraries as they expand community services in specifically targeted areas. Target areas and available packages include: 

• PROGRAMMING & SERVICES
  • Analog Outreach Package
  • Beyond the Library Package
  • Teen Services Package
  • Trauma-informed Library Package
• TECHNOLOGY
  • Assistive Technology and Digital Inclusion Package
  • Audio-visual Package
• SPECIAL COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT
  • Inclusive Library Collection Package
  • Mental Health Collection Package
  • Multilingual Collection Package
  • Collection Development Supplies Package
• CRITICAL NEEDS 
  • Administrative Support Package
  • COVID-19 Package
  • Partners for Health Package
  • Crisis Response Package

For details on items that could be included in each package, please consult the TSLAC CAP Grant: Notice of Funding Opportunity

Are there any provisions on what the CAP grant will not fund? 

This grant program will NOT fund intangible items such as salaries, subscriptions, services, support costs, etc. Additionally, this grant will NOT fund the following costs:

1. Building construction, renovation, or repair, including fixtures and services.
2. Food, beverages, or food delivery equipment or services.
3. Awards, honoraria, prizes, or gifts.
4. Equipment or technology not specifically needed to carry out the goals of the grant.
5. Transportation/travel for participants or non-grant funded personnel.
6. Databases currently offered or similar to ones offered by the agency (i.e., a magazine index database may not be purchased if a comparable one is provided by the agency)
7. Collection development purchases not targeted directly to the grant goals nor integral to the service program.
8. Advertising or public relations costs not directly related to promoting awareness of grant-funded activities.
9. Performers or presenters whose purpose is to entertain rather than to educate.
10. Other expenses as excluded in the guidelines

Can my library apply to more than one packages? 

Yes. Eligible entities may submit only one application for consideration under the CAP Grant Program, but the applicant may apply for up to two CAP Packages on the same application form.

Frequently Asked Questions about the grant application process

How do I get set-up in GMS or make changes to my current GMS account?

If you need a GMS account or need to make changes to an existing GMS account, please fill out THIS FORM and email it to grants@tsl.texas.gov with your request. Someone will contact you with further information concerning your request. 

How do I submit my grant application? 

Grant applications and required documents can be submitted electronically, using:

• TSLAC's grant management system (GMS). TSLAC uses a grant management system or GMS that enables applicants to apply for grants electronically through a web portal at https://grants.tsl.texas.gov.
• By email. Email application and required documents to the TSLAC Grants Team, via email at grants@tsl.texas.gov. The e-mail should reference “TSLAC CAP Grant” in the subject line. 
• By mail. Mail submissions must be postmarked by April 1, 2022. Please send mail submissions to: 

TSLAC CAP Grant
Texas State Library and Archives Commission
Library Development & Networking Division
PO Box 12927
Austin, Texas 78701

What needs to be in my grant application? 

The grant application consists of the following components:

1.     Application Certification Form signed by appropriate signing authority.
2.     Program narrative and budget.
3.     Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) certification form .

Before submitting an application, applicant organizations must have a current and active federal Unique Entity ID (UEI). The federal government uses a unique identifier for each entity (company, non-profit, organization, etc.) that does business with the federal government. For more than two decades, Dun & Bradstreet’s Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) has served as the unique entity ID. On April 4, 2022, the federal government will complete the transition to a new UEI issued within the System for Award Management (SAM). At that time, the DUNS number will no longer be an accepted UEI.

If you are currently registered in SAM.gov, you’ve already been assigned a SAM Unique Entity ID. It’s viewable on your entity registration record in SAM.gov. If you have never registered at SAM.gov or have never applied for a grant with TSLAC or other state or federal agency, you will need to initiate the process of obtaining a SAM UEI at SAM.gov. 

To get started registering your entity, to renew your registration, or for more information, visit SAM.gov or to refer to the Quick Start Guide for Getting a Unique Entity ID, published by the US General Services Administration (GSA).

Where can I find the Grant Application Certification Form in GMS? 

Your Grant Application Certification Form is located within your GMS application. It is pre-populated with your information as you fill out your application. Below is a screenshot of where you can locate your Grant Application Certification Form within your GMS application. Print it out, have it signed by your governing authority, and upload it to your grant application in GMS as a note.

 

Who can submit the grant for the library? 

Any individual authorized to use GMS and having the correct security role will be able to submit the application in GMS. Applicants will be required to submit the signed application certification. The application certification form must be signed by an individual authorized to enter into contracts with the State of Texas (e.g., county judge, city manager, etc.).