Each year as part of the statewide Summer Reading Program, the Vermont Department of Libraries provides grant money through the Smith Fund supporting a wide array of library summer programming for children and teens. Libraries use these funds to purchase materials, and for in-person and virtual experiential programming and performances.
The Department encourages libraries to collaborate and pool their grant money to plan programs and events that serve the greatest number of youths in the most effective manner. We also encourage libraries to support the local economy and to purchase locally-sourced materials, products, and food, as well as sustainable and eco-friendly options whenever possible. Using funds for local performers, artists/artisans, educators, authors, and museums and cultural institutions is highly encouraged. Recipients of the grants will be asked if and how they used funds to support the local economy in the summer grant expenditure report.
2024 Summer Programming Grants
In 2024, the Department offered grants of $300 through the Smith Fund to support Vermont public library summer reading programs.
Grant Timeline
- February 15, 2024: Grant application opens
- February 20, 2024: Summer Grant Information Session takes place
- March 17, 2024: Grant application closes
- May 17, 2024: Grant agreements issued
- May 15 - September 15, 2024: Grant spending period (for any eligible grant costs incurred on or after May 15, 2024)
- September 15, 2024: Deadline for spending funds/holding performances
- November 15, 2024: Deadline for grant certification and expenditure report
Grant Resources
- 2024 Summer Programming Grant Guidelines
- 2024 Summer Programming Grant Information Session Video (YouTube, February 20, 2024)
- Grant Certification & Expenditure Report (will be made available after grants are issued)
- Grant email: lib.vtlibyouthgrants@vermont.gov - all questions, concerns, and feedback are welcome!
2023 Summer Programming Grants
151 Vermont libraries received the 2023 Summer Programming Grant through the Smith Fund of $300, supporting a wide array of programming statewide.
- List of Libraries Who Received 2023 Summer Programming Grants
- Recording of Summer Programming Grant Information Session (2/23/23)
Read more about the Summer Reading Program here!