CARES Grant Requirements

Through their governing authority, accredited public libraries, local public library systems, libraries that are members of the TexShare Library Consortium, or non-profit organizations that are applying on behalf of accredited libraries and/or TexShare members, are eligible to apply for funds.

• Public library applicants must be accredited by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission for the fiscal year in which the grant contracts are issued. 

• There is no requirement for cost sharing, matching funds, or cost participation with this grant program.

• Applicants may only receive one award under the TSLAC CARES grant program. For example, a subrecipient for Cycle 1 funding is not eligible to submit an application for subsequent TSLAC CARES grant program cycles.

Please email the Grants Administrator with any quesitons regarding eligibility at grants@tsl.texas.gov.

This grant program will fund expansion of digital access in areas of Texas where such access is lacking. This can include the purchase of internet-enabled devices and provisions for technical support services in response to the disruption of schooling and other community services during the COVID-19 emergency. Additionally, funding may be used to address efforts that prevent, prepare for, and respond to situations arising from the COVID-19 emergency. 

Funding is provided by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). TSLAC will conduct at least two grant cycles utilizing CARES Act funds with approximately $250,000 expected to be available for Cycle 2.

• Cycle 2 funding can be utilized retroactively to cover expenses incurred beginning April 21, 2020. Please note that expenses incurred before April 21, 2020 are not eligible for reimbursement. 

• Cycle 2 will open for application on August 28, 2020 with an award date in November 2020.

• The maximum grant award will be $25,000 for a single library location and $50,000 for a multi-branch library location.