The ASA'carsarmiut tribal council will invest in its library through staffing support, a new collection of books, and internet services

The Asa'Carsarmiut Tribal Council received a $150,000 Project Grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) under the Native American and Native Hawaiian Library Services program (CFDA 45.311), awarded October 1, 2025. The two-year project, concluding September 30, 2027, will enhance library operations in Mountain Village, Alaska through three primary components: staffing support to sustain library operations; expansion of the collection with encyclopedias, almanacs, Native Alaskan cultural materials, children's books, and practical how-to resources covering carpentry, small engine mechanics, outboard motor mechanics, and sled building; and internet access enabling patrons to conduct job searches, pursue online education, and apply for state and federal benefits.

Supporting the educational and economic development objectives of the grant, project leadership will identify and facilitate training opportunities in Microsoft Excel software and First Aid/CPR certification. These library services and resources will serve children, students, and adults across the community, providing essential access to information and educational opportunities while supporting continued learning, workforce development, and recreational reading.

Collection resources will include encyclopedias, almanacs, books on native alaskan culture, children's books, and how-to books such as rough carpentry, basic carpentry, small engine mechanics, outboard motor mechanics, and sled building. Internet access will enable patrons to search for jobs, pursue online education, and apply for state and federal benefits. Project leads will identify training opportunities around excel software as well as first aid/CPR. Children, students, and adults will be able to use these resources to continue their education, seek job opportunities, and pursue reading for pleasure.