Applications open for Advancing Racial Equity Collections Development Grants

Libraries, schools, colleges and universities and nonprofit organizations are invited to apply to Indiana Humanities for funds to add to their circulating collections digital or physical resources that address topics of race, systemic racism and the Black experience in Indiana and beyond.

Indiana Humanities first offered the Advancing Racial Equity Collection Development grants in response to the 2020 murder of George Floyd and ensuing protests. The grant program was designed to address the increased demand on libraries for materials on the subject of racial equity. Due to continued interest, the grants are being offered again this year. This special grant opportunity and associated programs are made possible thanks to funding from Lilly Endowment Inc.

The grants of up to $1,000 can be used to add digital or physical resources — including books, films or other materials — to a library’s collection. Materials must be selected from among the more than 400 titles on the pre-approved list, which has been curated by librarians with input from humanities scholars.

“Libraries are essential resources for their communities, and we are grateful to assist with the growth of their collections in this important subject area,” said Keira Amstutz, president and CEO of Indiana Humanities. “Thanks to Lilly Endowment for providing this support to Indiana’s libraries and the Hoosiers who rely on them.”

Libraries, including those within prisons, community centers and schools, are encouraged to apply. Other Indiana tax-exempt organizations, such as senior citizens centers or community centers, may apply but must be able to demonstrate in their application how materials will circulate for free within their communities. These funds may not be used to purchase books or other materials for one-time giveaways but instead should be for multiple users over time.