Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grants are funds awarded to the State Library of North Carolina by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The purpose of this grant program is to enhance the role of North Carolina libraries as community leaders in advancing literacy and lifelong learning. Literacy is described as the ability to read, write, and interact across a range of platforms, tools, and media; and it encompasses information literacy, computer literacy, digital literacy, and more. Lifelong learning is an attitude of continuous learning. Engaging learners of all ages may be achieved through formal, informal, and self-directed learning opportunities. Programs/services in this category may:
- Promote interest in grade-level reading, science, technology, engineering, math, etc.;
- Focus around topics such as parenting, computer use, technologies beyond computers, personal health information, personal finance, job skills, etc.;
- Reach adults whose lack of computer skills are barriers to employment; and
- Emphasize libraries as centers for civic engagement and productive aging.
Project examples include, but are not limited to:
- Conversation groups for language learners to improve their speaking skills;
- Development and delivery of a curriculum for language and literacy skills to help language learners better articulate their health care needs;
- Basic computer or technology instruction provided in the library or in another agency;
- Workplace literacy workshops provided in the library, at the workplace, or in another agency;
- Computer literacy programs to address the employment, personal finance, consumer health, and/or educational needs of an identified target audience; and
- A mobile laptop training lab to offer computer literacy courses, or other topics as needed.
Funds for library collections or computers and other technology may be requested under this grant program when combined with a program or service and aligned with the stated purpose.