Each year as part of the statewide Summer Reading Program, the Vermont Department of Libraries distributes grant money through the estate of the Elva S. Smith Trust in support of youth library activities. 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.
NEW: 2024 Summer Reading Program Reporting
The summer program reporting form opens at the end of August and is due Friday, November 15, 2024. Reporting is mandatory for all libraries that received the 2024 Summer Programming Grant. Libraries can use the Summer Programming Grant Report and Summer Reading Survey Preview to gather information for the report form. Reports must be submitted through the online form:
2024 Summer Programming Grants
In 2024, the Department offered grants of $300 through the Smith Fund to support Vermont public library summer reading programs.
NOTE: Your application is not considered complete until both the application and the supporting documents are submitted. Prior to beginning your application, please review the information needed (on the first page) and make sure you have the following documents ready to upload:
- A W9 that has been hand-signed (no electronic signatures) within the last twelve months
- A valid Certificate of Insurance
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 Reporting Form
- 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!