Why are grants so important for libraries?

Grants are crucial for libraries because they provide the financial resources needed to implement innovative projects and programs that might otherwise be impossible due to budget limitations. Bess G. de Farber's "Collaborative Grant-Seeking: A Practical Guide for Librarians" emphasizes that grants are essential for libraries to adapt to the changing information landscape, enhance services, and better serve their patrons. Securing grants allows libraries to offer more resources, expand their reach, and create a greater impact on their communities.

What makes the grant-seeking process seem difficult?

The grant-seeking process often seems daunting because it involves several complex steps, including assessing library needs, identifying suitable grant opportunities, building collaborative teams, crafting a compelling narrative, creating a realistic budget, and ensuring compliance with all guidelines. De Farber's guide aims to demystify this process by providing a structured approach and practical advice, such as how to avoid common pitfalls like excessive pronoun usage. The guide also offers insights into overcoming challenges such as time constraints and lack of resources, ultimately empowering librarians to approach grant-seeking with confidence and clarity.

How is the guide structured to help librarians understand grant seeking?

Bess G. de Farber's "Collaborative Grant-Seeking: A Practical Guide for Librarians" is structured using an inverted pyramid approach. It begins with broad foundational knowledge about library funding and grantsmanship, gradually narrowing down to specific, actionable instructions. This structure allows librarians to build a comprehensive understanding of the grant-seeking process, from the basics to detailed application components. This approach ensures librarians are well-equipped with a solid understanding before diving into the specifics of grant writing.

What are "mini-grant" programs, and why are they mentioned?

Creating internal “mini-grant” programs within libraries is a standout feature discussed in De Farber's book. These programs help cultivate grant-related knowledge and skills among staff. They involve practical steps for establishing and managing such programs, which foster innovation and staff development. The implementation of mini-grant programs provides opportunities for staff to learn, experiment, and collaborate on projects, enriching their skills and promoting a culture of grantsmanship. Examples from various library systems, including De Farber's own experience, demonstrate the benefits of these programs in promoting innovative initiatives.

Librarians discovering funding opportunities through grant writing.

Unlock Library Funding: A Practical Guide to Grant Seeking

Q: How does the guide cater to different roles within a library?

The book is designed to cater to distinct audiences within libraries. For library management, it offers guidance on "Creating a Library Grant-Seeking Program" and "Ways to Grow a Culture of Grantsmanship." Librarians involved in the application process will find valuable information in "Strategies for Completing Application Components" and "Grant-Writing Tips and Potential Errors to Avoid." This targeted approach ensures that all library staff, from leadership to those directly involved in grant writing, receive the relevant information and support needed to succeed in grant-seeking, fostering a comprehensive approach to securing funding.

Samir D’Costa in Mind & Education December 2025 • 4 min read.

"Navigate the grant landscape and empower your library with innovative projects and resources."

Grants are the lifeblood of innovation in the library world. They fuel transformative projects that would otherwise remain unrealized due to budget constraints. The American Library Association's extensive directory proves that funding is available, but securing it requires a well-crafted grant proposal. Yet, the grant-seeking process can often seem daunting, deterring librarians from pursuing vital initiatives.

According to Bess G. de Farber's "Collaborative Grant-Seeking: A Practical Guide for Librarians," grant-seeking is a crucial skill for librarians adapting to evolving information landscapes. Grants are untapped resources that can dramatically improve library services and programming. De Farber emphasizes the importance of grant-writing proficiency and highlights how understanding the grant-seeking process can empower librarians to better assist their patrons.

This guide is especially relevant for health librarians, where grant-seeking is integral to health research. Drawing on her experience as a grants manager at the University of Florida Libraries and as a grant review panelist, de Farber provides invaluable insights into crafting successful applications. She tackles common pitfalls, like excessive pronoun usage, and offers practical advice to overcome barriers such as time constraints and lack of resources.

Demystifying the Grant-Seeking Process

Librarians discovering funding opportunities through grant writing.

De Farber's book is structured into seven chapters, employing an inverted pyramid approach, starting with broad foundational knowledge and progressively narrowing to specific, actionable instructions. While collaboration is highlighted, the book covers all facets of grant-seeking, from the history of library funding and the principles of grantsmanship to sample budget narratives. Although it focuses on the American context, the core recommendations for grant-writing and the examples provided are universally applicable.

A standout feature is the discussion in Chapter Three on developing internal “mini-grant” programs within libraries. De Farber outlines practical steps for creating programs that cultivate grant-related knowledge, skills, and interests. She provides real-world examples from various library systems, including her own, illustrating how these programs can foster innovation and staff development.

Assess library needs and align them with grant opportunities.
Build a collaborative team with diverse skills.
Develop a compelling narrative that showcases impact.
Create a realistic budget and demonstrate sustainability.
Follow all guidelines and submit a polished application.

The book is explicitly designed as a practical guide for librarians. While de Farber writes from an academic perspective, she includes examples from public and academic libraries to cater to a broad audience. By comprehensively covering all aspects of grant-seeking, the book empowers librarians to approach the process with confidence and clarity.

Empowering Librarians to Secure Funding

Each chapter of "Collaborative Grant-Seeking" is tailored to distinct audiences. For instance, “Creating a Library Grant-Seeking Program” and “Ways to Grow a Culture of Grantsmanship” are geared toward library management, while “Strategies for Completing Application Components” and “Grant-Writing Tips and Potential Errors to Avoid” are for librarians actively involved in the application process.

The book's structure allows readers to efficiently access relevant information without needing to read extraneous sections. This targeted approach ensures that librarians can quickly find the guidance they need to address specific challenges or interests within the grant-seeking process.

Ultimately, "Collaborative Grant-Seeking" demystifies the grant proposal process, making it less intimidating and more accessible. By providing a step-by-step guide, this book equips librarians and libraries with the knowledge and confidence to pursue funding opportunities and transform their innovative ideas into reality.