Best Library Grants in Europe

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

The Humboldt Research Fellowship for Postdoctoral Researchers, sponsored by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, supports international scholars in advancing their research in Germany. Eligible candidates must have completed their doctorate within the last four years and can apply for fellowships ranging from 6 to 24 months. The fellowship includes benefits such as a monthly stipend of 2,500 EUR, travel allowances, and insurance subsidies, promoting academic collaboration and exchange.

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens offers travel grants for research abroad in fields aligned with its collections. Six grants are available, each providing a stipend of $3,500 after submitting a detailed report. Applicants must be doctoral candidates, faculty, or postdoctoral scholars based in North America. The grants aim to support scholarly pursuits in libraries and archives outside the U.S. or Canada, particularly in the UK, Europe, and Latin America.

The Lapidus Fellowship for the Study of Rare Early American Legal Texts, offered by the Omohundro Institute in collaboration with William & Mary Law School, supports scholars at various stages of their careers. This one-month fellowship allows access to a unique collection of rare legal texts. With a stipend of $2,500, it aims to foster research in early American legal history, encouraging innovative scholarship through the use of valuable resources.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

The Bernadotte E. Schmitt Grants, offered by the American Historical Association, provide funding for research in the history of Europe, Africa, and Asia. Grants up to $1,500 support travel, archival work, and other research-related expenses. Eligible applicants include members of the Association, with a preference for advanced doctoral students and non-tenured faculty. Grants are awarded annually in June and can be used within 15 months, though individuals may not exceed a total of $1,500 from all AHA grants in five years.

Grays Harbor Community Foundation

The Grays Harbor Community Foundation awards scholarships to local students for education after high school. The emphasis is on undergraduate studies at any* two or four year college or university and vocational/technical programs leading to a license or certification.

Bob and Elizabeth Preble Memorial Scholarship

Robert John ‘Bob’ Preble, 96, lifelong Aberdeen resident and local historian, passed away peacefully at his home-away-from-home on Hood Canal.

Bob was born June 13, 1921, in Aberdeen, Wash., to Walter and Mary (Briggs) Preble, the youngest of five children.

He was a 1939 graduate of Weatherwax High School and a 1943 graduate of Stanford University. Entering the U.S. Navy in 1943, he served at sea in anti-submarine warfare and left active duty with the Underwater Demolition Teams in 1946. He retired from the reserves as a Lt. Commander.

Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and raised in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, Liz Preble worked as a travel agent for Durney Travel and was herself a world traveler. With husband Bob she saw all of Europe and most of Latin America. She toured China, the Soviet Union, Japan, Thailand, and Indonesia. In Aberdeen, her home for 54 years, she was active in over a dozen community organizations, including St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, the Friends of the Aberdeen Timberland Library, Chapter AK of the PEO Sisterhood, and the Pacific Peaks Girl Scouts Council. As patrons of the arts, Liz and Bob helped lead community efforts to install a George Tsutakawa fountain in front of Aberdeen’s City Hall and the bronze owl by Benny Bufano at the entrance to the Aberdeen Timberland Library.

The Bob and Elizabeth Preble Memorial Scholarship is open to all applicants who satisfy the general eligibility requirements. Each applicant should exhibit outstanding character, a proven work ethic, and the promise of useful citizenship. These more qualitative judgments will be based on the applicant’s personal essay, resume, transcripts and other information provided through the application form.

Beverly J. Gilliam Scholarship for Foreign Study

The Beverly J. Gilliam Scholarship for Foreign Study offers financial assistance to students who are accepted into recognized summer study abroad programs. The scholarship’s goals are to help students obtain international experiences that will allow them to become better world citizens and successfully compete in the global job market. Beverly J. Gilliam was educated in the New York Public School System received her undergraduate degree from City University of New York and obtained a graduate degree from Columbia University's School of Library Science.

Her professional career started in Asia where she was responsible for activating and managing American libraries in Korea and Japan as well as libraries at U.S. military installations throughout Europe. Her overseas experience impacted her career and allowed her to become well-versed in various cultures. This program will allow UNCF students to experience diverse cultures and participate within challenging overseas' academic environments. 

The study-abroad program, taking place during the summer 2026, must be approved by your home institution and will allow the applicants to receive earned credit hours towards their undergraduate degree. The candidates will be required to submit the following documents: On-line Application, Resume, Transcript, Essays, Study-Abroad Details and Academic Recommendation. In addition, applicants will also upload the supporting documentation, whereby their study abroad program will be able to transfer earned credit hours to their undergraduate institution. 

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

About the Library

Established in 1850, the California State Library is the central reference and research library for state government and the Legislature. The library collection includes more than 4 million titles, 6,000 maps, and 250,000 photographs. It has an extensive collection of documents from and about the state’s rich history and is one of the major genealogical reference libraries on the West Coast. It also holds significant collections from Mexico, the United Kingdom and Europe, with manuscripts dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. The State Library is both a State and Federal Depository Library, providing free and open access to government information, and is a U.S. Patent and Trademark Resource Center. It is home to the Bernard E. Witkin State Law Library and the Braille and Talking Book Library. It also directs state and federal funds to support local public libraries and statewide library programs and services.

Digital Literacy and Access

The Digital Literacy and Access opportunity provides funds to help California public libraries improve access to high-speed broadband and improve digital literacy in their communities, through digital navigation services for library users, digital literacy training opportunities for the public, and AI and/or internet safety. The Digital Literacy and Access opportunity provides funds to help California public libraries improve access to high-speed broadband and improve digital literacy in their communities, through digital navigation services for library users, digital literacy training opportunities for the public, and AI and/or internet safety classes.

Purpose

As many as two million Californians experience slow or no internet access at home, which can mean limited access to essential online activities like banking, healthcare, homework, remote work, and job seeking. Without high-speed internet at home, however, these Californians can rely on one anchor institution that offers free, reliable broadband: local public libraries. 

Public libraries provide access to digital resources and the skills to safely use those resources, which are key components of the Broadband for All Initiative (external link). The goals of this opportunity are to help libraries improve access to high-speed broadband and improve digital literacy in their communities.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

The Paul Oskar Kristeller Fellowship, offered by the Renaissance Society of America, supports scholarly research in various disciplines, excluding Art History. It provides funding up to $2,000 for research-related expenses, including travel and digital access fees. The fellowship prioritizes contingent faculty, independent scholars, and early career researchers. Applications are evaluated on scholarly quality, applicant achievements, and feasibility of research. Up to ten fellowships may be awarded annually, encouraging innovative contributions to the understanding of the Renaissance.

The RSA-Samuel H. Kress Research Fellowships in Renaissance Art History support innovative research in art history from the Renaissance period. Funded by the Renaissance Society of America, these fellowships provide up to $3,000 for scholarly projects that require access to archives or collections. Applicants must demonstrate the quality of their proposals and potential contributions to the field. The fellowships prioritize early career and independent scholars, ensuring a diverse range of voices in Renaissance studies.

The RSA–Virginia Fox Stern Center Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for scholars to conduct intensive research at the Johns Hopkins University Sheridan Libraries. This one-month fellowship focuses on pre-1800 rare book and manuscript collections, particularly the Women of the Book Collection and the Bibliotheca Fictiva Collection. It encourages innovative research that contributes to Renaissance studies, supporting scholars across all disciplines and career levels.