Budgets & Funding

For the fourth year in a row, the proposed federal budget calls for defunding IMLS and makes cuts to education spending as well. Library advocates and educators are being asked once again to speak out to protect the funding.

An accurate count in this year's controversial census is critical to securing library funding and keeping school and health programs going. Use these resources to create teachable moments with students and host a census count at your library. 

School board elections across the country are turning into big-money campaigns, often powered by out-of-area contributors. Take a deeper look at who's on the board, how they get there, and what they control—and don't—in their districts. 

Ali Schilpp, media specialist at Northern Middle School in Accident, MD, shares her experience and expertise securing funds.

Jump-start your grant search with these sources and success stories.

Be passionate and specific—and follow the rules, say these experts.

Survey shows parents and teachers agree public schools—and teachers—need more money, but have differing opinions on the role of public schools and how to evaluate them.

The late-night legislation might make a difference for the city's school librarians, but right now, the proposal remains to eliminate all school librarian position next year.

The list features average book prices for 2018 and 2019 to date, including children’s books, young adult books,  graphic novels, paperbacks, and hardcover editions, and is produced in partnership with Follett.