Library Services and Technology
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)supports libraries in the 50 states through funding from the federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), which is administered in California by the State Librarian. The funds are used to promote, through a competitive grant process, improvements in services to all types of libraries; to facilitate access to, and sharing of, resources and services through the California State Library; and to achieve economical and effective delivery of service for the purpose of cultivating an educated and informed citizenry. In addition, LSTA funds are targeted for statewide library services and support a wide array of programs, from early learning to digital access and preservation. LSTA also supports efforts to educate the current and future library workforce in California. LSTA priorities as defined in 20 USC Chapter 72 are:
- Expanding services for learning and access to information and educational resources in a variety of formats, in all type of libraries, and for individuals of all ages
- Developing library services that provide all users access to information through local, State, regional, national, and international electronic networks
- Providing linkages among and between all types of libraries
- Developing public and private partnerships with other agencies and community-based organizations
- Targeting library services to individuals of diverse geographical, cultural, and socioeconomical backgrounds, to individuals with disabilities, and to individuals with limited functional literacy or information skills
- Targeting library and information services to persons having difficulty using a library and to underserved urban and rural communities, including children from families with incomes below the poverty lines
California LSTA Five-Year Plan
The State Library is required by IMLS to submit a five-year plan outlining how the state will spend LSTA funds according to the priorities defined in the law. This plan is developed with input from focus groups and library staff and the assistance of outside consultants. Competitive grant proposals must address one or more of the goals and needs outlined in the current plan. The State Library is also required to submit an evaluation at the end of every LSTA 5-year plan.
Contact Us About LSTA
California State Library
Greg Lucas, State Librarian of California
P.O. Box 942837
Sacramento, CA 94237-0001
(916) 323-9759
FAX (916) 323-9786
Email: lsta@library.ca.gov
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