The massachusetts board of library commissioners will use funds to support the goals of their five-year plan for FY 2023-2027, which reflect the purposes and priorities of the library services and…

The Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) received a $5.555 million Formula Grant award from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) under the Grants to States program (CFDA 45.310) to support its five-year plan for fiscal years 2023 through 2027. The plan focuses on promoting learning and skill development, enabling access to information resources, strengthening local libraries, and building thriving communities.

Key initiatives to be funded include the establishment of makerspaces at three public libraries - the Thomas Crane Public Library in Quincy, an unspecified library, and the Shrewsbury Public Library - to provide structured workshops and open hours for community members to develop skills in areas like technology and creativity. Standardized training will also be offered to library staff. The makerspaces and training programs aim to increase access to educational opportunities, foster community engagement, and promote innovation.

The massachusetts board of library commissioners will use funds to support the goals of their five-year plan for FY 2023-2027, which reflect the purposes and priorities of the library services and technology act (LSTA). Specific goals include: 1) promoting learning and skill development - massachusetts residents will have opportunities to gain knowledge and develop skills that enable them to reach their goals, resolve real life issues, and advance their economic and employment ambitions; 2) enable access - massachusetts residents will have convenient access to relevant, high-quality information resources; 3) strengthen libraries - massachusetts residents will be served by local libraries that employ knowledgeable, community-focused staff members who incorporate the best professional practices and up-to-date technologies to deliver relevant, high-quality library services; and 4) build thriving communities - massachusetts residents will have opportunities to discover and explore their personal and community histories, dialogue with other community members, engage new americans, and participate in and contribute to the vitality of their communities.