SELCO offers two grant opportunities to help public libraries bring unique programs to their communities: the Community Collaboration Grant and the Community Reads Grant.

Community Collaboration Grant: provides up to $7,000 for partnership projects between libraries and non-library organizations. It’s a competitive grant, designed to foster strong, measurable, and lasting community connections through creative collaborations. This grant is offered twice a year, with application rounds taking place in the Fall and Spring.

Community Reads Grant: provides up to $2,000 annually for each library to host a community-wide reading initiative. This non-competitive grant is flexible, supporting everything from traditional “one book” reads to book clubs, author visits, storywalks, or other creative activities that encourage shared reading experiences. This grant is offered annually, and the application form opens in early winter.

In short, the Community Collaboration Grant focuses on building partnerships and larger-scale projects, while the Community Reads Grant emphasizes bringing people together through books and shared stories.