Activities and Support

CLiF works closely with the public library, the local elementary school, and area preschools to provide extensive support over the course of one school year. This includes:

• $2,000 in new, high-quality children’s books for the public library (selected by public librarian).
• $500 in new books for the school library (selected by school librarian).
• $300 to support summer reading programming and events at your library.
• An author/illustrator visit at the local elementary school in Fall 2025. The public and school librarians will showcase their new library books purchased with the CLiF grant at this event.
• A book giveaway for all the students at the elementary school or library to be held in Spring 2026 for a summer reading kickoff. Each student (grades preK-6) will be able to choose two new books to take home provided by CLiF; schools with over 300 students will receive 1 book/student. The public and school librarians will showcase their summer reading programs.
• New books for children ages 0-5 at the library, preschool, Head Start, or local child care center. Librarians are encouraged to reach out to a new partner for delivering the books and doing a read aloud.

Eligibility

• Public library in Vermont or New Hampshire
• Self-identify as “rural”
• Limited budget; libraries with annual budget of less than $125,000 generally given preference
• Demonstrated need for CLiF support
• Enthusiasm to partner with the local elementary school, child care centers, families, and community members
• Must be a minimum of three years since your last Rural Library grant
• Note: libraries can apply for a 2025 Summer Readers grant, this will not disqualify you for a Rural Library grant in 2025-26

Grant Application

The 2025-26 grant application will open in Spring 2025. Sign up for our e-newsletter to receive notification when it opens!