The wrangell cooperative association will enhance the role of the irene ingle public library, an educational and cultural cornerstone for a remote island town with rich tlingit heritage

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) awarded $150,000 to the Wrangell Cooperative Association under the Native American and Native Hawaiian Library Services program (CFDA 45.311) on October 1, 2025, for a two-year project concluding September 30, 2027. The award funds a Programming Coordinator position to develop and deliver comprehensive educational and cultural programming at the Irene Ingle Public Library in Wrangell, Alaska. Deliverables include after-school tutoring for high school students, early literacy programs for toddlers, digital literacy workshops for seniors, an esports club, and a year-round teen book club. These services are designed to serve a remote island community with significant Tlingit heritage and to establish the library as a vital community hub.

The project advances the program's core objectives of improving educational access, enhancing digital and educational services, and supporting cultural preservation for Alaska Native communities. By expanding library programming across multiple age groups and skill levels, the award strengthens core community resources and increases community engagement in a geographically isolated location where such services are limited.

Project funds will support a programming coordinator to develop a range of programs such as after-school tutoring for high school students, early literacy offerings for toddlers, and digital literacy workshops for seniors. Additional initiatives include an esports club and a year-round teen book club. The aim is to improve educational outcomes, increase community engagement, and expand access to cultural and learning opportunities for all residents, from young children to elders. Through these activities, the library will further establish its place as a vital community hub.