Austin, TX – The Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC) has received a $7.8 million Library Infrastructure and Facility Access Improvement Grant (IFAIG) from the U.S. Department of the Treasury to support statewide high-quality modern infrastructure at Texas libraries. The project will assist public libraries across the state in gaining access to critical broadband infrastructure and services. TSLAC worked with the Texas Broadband Development Office, a program of the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, throughout the development of the funding proposal.
TSLAC’s IFAIG program will fund improvements to libraries serving rural communities or those that fall below median national income levels. Funds may be used to cover the costs of laying fiber, physical accommodation for broadband and expanded and improved physical space for digital access projects, such as telehealth, job training or classroom labs. The agency expects to support 85 libraries that collectively serve more than 1 million Texans.
“The Texas State Library and Archives Commission is thrilled to be able to bring this support to libraries across the state, many of which are the only local source for free internet access,” said TSLAC Director and State Librarian Gloria Meraz. “Libraries are anchor institutions in their communities and provide technology, access to resources and most importantly, trained staff to help people connect one-on-one to the digital marketplace of ideas. This grant funding, made possible by the U.S. Treasury Department and the excellent support of the Texas Broadband Development Office, will be a game-changer for many communities.”
Funds will be distributed through a competitive grant program, and recipients will receive support in three phases to address limited staff capacity. Phase 1 will provide technology assessments to establish the needs at library facilities and streamline the application process. Phase 2 will offer grant funding for infrastructure and equipment to increase library building internet speeds, as well as light remodeling/construction projects to improve library technology services and access. Phase 3 will provide IT coaching for customized support and training, ensuring grant-funded projects are successfully implemented.
The technology assessments and grant application period (phases 1 and 2) are expected to begin in spring 2024, with grants awarded and infrastructure and facility improvement projects to begin as early as summer 2024. Information about the grant application process and preparation for applying will begin this fall. The grant period will end with all funds expended by Dec. 31, 2026.
TSLAC will reach out to libraries and communities to partner in the development of the program and assist in the application and implementation process. This funding is part of the nationwide investment to fund critical capital projects that enable work, education and health monitoring through the Capital Projects Fund created under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
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The Texas State Library and Archives Commission provides Texans access to the information needed to be informed, productive citizens by preserving the archival record of Texas; enhancing the service capacity of public, academic and school libraries; assisting public agencies in the maintenance of their records; and meeting the reading needs of Texans with disabilities. For more information, visit www.tsl.texas.gov.
