Federal grant awarded to the Connecticut State Library terminated
The statutory grant, awarded under the Library Services and Technology Act Grant to States program, was meant to cover the current federal fiscal year ending on Sept. 30
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The Connecticut State Library says a federal granted awarded from The Institute of Museum and Library Services has been terminated, effective this week.
The statutory grant, awarded under the Library Services and Technology Act Grant to States program, was meant to cover the current federal fiscal year ending on Sept. 30
The library was awarded over $2 million to support statewide library services, programs, and infrastructure that give residents access to information and education.
Officials say more than 56% of funding has not yet to be sent.
Programs that benefit from the funding include early literacy and summer reading, support for veterans and military families, interlibrary loan and resource sharing, digital connectivity and digital navigation and a statewide digital library.
The funding also supports 13 staff members.
According to the library's website, while federal funding doesn't directly support libraries that are funded locally through their municipalities, "the local impact would be felt by the loss of programs and support across all Connecticut communities."
In a statement, State Librarian Deborah Schander said, "We are deeply dismayed by this decision, which has immediate negative impact on every Connecticut resident and the library services they count on. The Connecticut State Library remains committed to advancing the mission of libraries across the state and throughout our communities...we are exploring all options to ensure these vital services continue."
Connecticut State Library is an independent executive branch agency in the state. It is home to state archives, the office of the public records administrator and the museum of Connecticut history.
