The california digital library will expand library carpentry (LC) activities, which offer vital education for librarians of varied backgrounds

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) awarded a $150,000 National Leadership Grant (CFDA 45.312) to The Regents of the University of California to expand the Library Carpentry (LC) program. This 2-year project aims to enhance the scalability, sustainability, and impact of the LC program, which provides foundational coding and data science training for librarians. The key objectives are to explore scalable membership models tailored to the needs of libraries and research institutions, and to convene working groups comprising organizations inspired by the larger Carpentries program. This work will focus on ensuring the long-term organizational sustainability of LC so it can continue offering critical digital skills training to librarians across the country. The Regents has sub-awarded $626,938 to The Carpentries, Inc. to support specific project activities such as assessing the existing membership model, identifying strategic alliances, and developing a sustainability action plan.

By providing foundational coding and data science skills, LC workshops are key tools in the digital transformation of library services and have become essential librarian training. This project is an opportunity for strategic reflection and action to secure a scalable and adaptable future for LC. The project will focus on two areas: exploring scalable membership models tailored to the needs of libraries and research institutions to ensure organizational sustainability, and convening working groups comprising leaders from organizations inspired or influenced by the larger carpentries program. The work will enhance LC, prioritizing inclusivity, innovation, and long-term sustainability so IT can continue to offer the training and curricula necessary for librarians to cater to the growing data needs of their communities across the country.