The KAW nation will promote community access to the kanza library and learning center's many resources and services through increased staff, hours, and programming

The Kaw Nation received a $139,414 Project Grant award from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) under the Native American and Native Hawaiian Library Services program (CFDA 45.311), effective October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2027. The grant funds expanded operations and services at the Kanza Library and Learning Center in Kaw City, Oklahoma, through increased staffing, extended operating hours, and enhanced programming. Key deliverables include a parent/teacher resource section for the Shidler/Kaw City School District; an afterschool homework assistance program with tutoring and career planning services; STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) activities for youth engagement; cultural and educational programming for adults and elders, including a Native book club and specialized workshops; and tribal language literacy classes to support language revitalization.

The grant also funds development of an outdoor learning center with year-round access and provides professional development support for staff to attend training conferences. These library and learning center services are designed to increase community access to information resources and strengthen cultural preservation while serving rural residents of Kay County and surrounding Oklahoma communities. The comprehensive program reflects IMLS's mission to improve core library services and enhance preservation and revitalization of Native American cultures and languages through federally funded library initiatives.

The library will provide a parent/teacher resource section for the shidler/KAW city school district; an afterschool program and tutor will assist students with homework and career planning; and stem activities will engage youth. Programs for adults and elders include a native book club, specialized events, and cultural workshops. Language classes will be taught in the learning center to increase tribal language literacy. Staff will continue to enhance and expand library services to include an outdoor learning center that is open year-round. The project will also provide support for staff to travel for training at professional conferences. The project will benefit the rural citizens of KAY county and surrounding communities.