Best Library Grants in Washington

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 Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

The National Home Library Foundation Grant supports nonprofits in distributing books and reading materials to libraries and community groups with limited resources. This initiative aims to promote literacy and combat illiteracy among all ages through various programs. Grants are available only to tax-exempt organizations that adhere to non-discrimination policies. Preference is given to requests from the Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia areas, with applications considered on a rolling basis.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The Bayer Fund Health & Wellness Grant Program aims to support organizations that provide education and resources for patients and caregivers facing cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Grants focus on assisting communities, particularly the African American population, in managing these health issues. Funding covers educational services, disease awareness, and access to care, with all activities to commence post-funding decisions. Eligible organizations must hold a 501(c)(3) status and operate within 55 miles of Bayer sites.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in Washington provides essential funding for the development of vital community facilities in rural areas, including health care, public safety, and educational services. Eligible areas are those with populations under 20,000, with funding based on income levels. Grants can cover up to 75% of project costs, supporting local governments, non-profits, and tribes in enhancing community infrastructure and services year-round.

About this funding

This program will provide approximately $3 million of state transportation funds over the '25-'27 biennium. There is no match requirement. Washington’s Climate Commitment Act (CCA) produces these funds. The CCA supports Washington’s climate action efforts by putting cap-and-invest dollars to work reducing climate pollution, creating jobs and improving public health. Learn more about the CCA at www.climate.wa.gov.

E-Bike Lending Library and Ownership Grant Program

Learn about a grant process governmental, tribal or nonprofit organizations can participate in to establish or administer an e-bike loan program.

The state legislature funded this grant program to help more people use e-bikes. Organizations receiving this grant can set up or continue administering e-bike libraries which provide a cost-free opportunity for people to try riding and integrating e-bikes into their lifestyles for a fixed period of time.

Grantees should design their lending libraries in collaboration with communities that will use them.

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 Paul Wiseman Conservation Education Grant, offered by the Keta Legacy Foundation, supports conservation-focused non-profit organizations in the Salish Sea region. With a funding limit of $15,000, this grant encourages impactful educational projects and restoration initiatives that promote environmental awareness. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and community agencies. The foundation aims to enhance conservation efforts and foster community engagement in preserving the region's unique ecosystems.

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 Yann Weymouth Graduate Scholarship provides $5,000 and mentorship to a graduate student focusing on sustainability, resilience, wellness, and beauty in design. Administered by the Architects Foundation, candidates must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, be U.S. citizens, and enrolled in a NAAB-accredited architecture program. Previous recipients can reapply. This scholarship honors the legacy of Yann Weymouth, an accomplished architect known for his significant contributions to major design projects.

The Carolyn Horton Scholarship, initiated by the Foundation For Advancement In Conservation, supports members of the Book and Paper Group in covering costs for meetings, seminars, workshops, and research projects. Named after conservationist Carolyn Horton, who made significant contributions to the field, this scholarship aims to foster excellence and education in book and paper conservation. Eligible applicants must be current members of AIC and the Book and Paper specialty group, promoting ongoing professional development.

The Jacobs Research Funds (JRF) provide grants for research on aboriginal peoples of the Americas, supporting projects that focus on endangered cultures and languages, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. Grants range from $3,000 to $9,000, and applicants must submit all required documents, including support letters, by February 15. JRF prioritizes new data collection and does not fund proprietary or non-aboriginal research. Eligible researchers must typically hold a Master's degree or have a designated Sponsor.

The 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.

W. H. and Ella Abel Memorial Scholarship

Born in Sussex, England in 1870, William H. Abel was raised and educated in Salina, Kansas. In 1892, he moved to Montesano in what was then called Chehalis County, marrying Ella Rosmond in the same year

A school teacher and newspaper editor before being admitted to practice law in 1894, W. H. Abel went on to become one of the state’s leading attorneys. He worked on many of the most important trials of his time, including the prosecution of the IWW after the 1919 Armistice Day killings in Centralia.

A powerful figure in county politics, Abel also served on several important statewide boards, including the Washington State Joint Board for Higher Curricula and the Canal Commission.

He was an insatiable reader and dedicated supporter of libraries, donating hundreds of volumes to libraries at Washington State and Gonzaga Universities, as well as to the Montesano Public Library, which today bears his name.

The W. H. and Ella Abel Memorial Scholarship is open to all applicants who satisfy the general eligibility requirements of the Scholarship Program.

The Elaine M. Hothem Memorial Scholarship, established by friends and family in 2023, honors the legacy of Elaine Hothem, a passionate advocate for education and literature. Administered by The Dayton Foundation, this scholarship supports graduating high school seniors and current college students from Centerville or Washington Township, Ohio, who plan to major in history, education, or library science. Recipients are expected to have a history of community involvement and extracurricular participation.

The Keta Legacy Foundation offers Level 1 Community Conservation Education Grants to support conservation-focused non-profits in the Salish Sea region. Grants are capped at $5,000 for short-term educational projects that promote environmental awareness. Eligible projects include educational programs, workshops, and instructional materials. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives that foster community involvement and collaboration among various organizations while adhering to its commitment to environmental preservation.

The NNLM Region 5 Professional Development Award offers funding for individuals at member institutions to enhance their knowledge and skills in health-related areas. This initiative aims to support meetings, workshops, and training that focus on health literacy, public health, and evidence-based practices. By fostering professional development, the NNLM seeks to improve healthcare services and access to health information across various communities, ultimately contributing to better public health outcomes.

The Howard and Norma Lavy Veterans Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Lieutenant Colonel Howard B. Lavy, a distinguished U.S. Army veteran who served his country with valor. This scholarship supports graduating seniors and former students from Muskingum County with military service, encouraging their pursuit of education at accredited institutions. With a focus on community service and a GPA requirement, it aims to empower veterans and students from disadvantaged backgrounds. The scholarship reflects the commitment to honor those who have served.

The AHA Fellowship in Aerospace History, sponsored by NASA, supports advanced research in aerospace history across various dimensions. This fellowship seeks scholars with a PhD or doctoral candidates, prioritizing early-career researchers. The fellowship lasts six to nine months, allowing access to resources from prominent institutions in Washington, DC. Applications are reviewed by a committee from the American Historical Association, History of Science Society, and Society for the History of Technology, making it a prestigious opportunity for aspiring historians.

The AHA Fellowship in the History of Space Technology, offered by NASA, supports advanced research in aerospace history. This fellowship invites scholars, especially early-career researchers, to explore diverse topics from cultural to technological aspects of aerospace. The fellowship spans six to nine months with no residency requirement, providing access to major resources in Washington, DC. Applicants must hold a PhD or be close to completion in a relevant field, with stipends available for US citizens or permanent residents.

The HSS Fellowship in Aerospace History, funded by NASA, supports advanced research in aerospace history, covering cultural, economic, and scientific aspects. The fellowship lasts between six to nine months and encourages applicants at early career stages, particularly those with a PhD or in a doctoral program. Resources available include the National Archives and Smithsonian Air and Space Museum. Stipends are awarded only to US citizens or permanent residents, fostering significant scholarly contributions to the field.

The Anne van Biema Fellowship, established by bequest, promotes excellence in research on Japanese visual arts at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art. Open to postdoctoral and senior scholars for periods of two to twelve months, it offers a maximum stipend of $60,000, with additional support for research expenses. The fellowship fosters a collaborative environment, encouraging full-time dedication to research and participation in the museum's scholarly community.

The Irving Lowens Article Award, granted annually by the Society for American Music, honors outstanding contributions to American music studies. Named after Irving Lowens, a pivotal figure in American music history, the award recognizes articles published in the previous calendar year that advance the understanding of American music. This prestigious award includes a plaque and a cash prize, encouraging scholars to explore the diverse musical cultures of the Americas and beyond.

The Irving Lowens Book Award, presented by the Society for American Music, honors exceptional scholarship in American music. This prestigious award recognizes books published in the previous year that contribute to the understanding of American musical culture. Named after Irving Lowens, a pioneer in American music scholarship, this award emphasizes the Society's commitment to fostering research and appreciation for all forms of music in the Americas, celebrating diverse voices and perspectives.

The Pacific Power Foundation offers Community Enhancement and Environmental Respect Grants to support nonprofit organizations in the Pacific Power and Rocky Mountain Power service areas. Since 2019, the foundation has contributed over $13 million to promote community resilience, affordable housing, and environmental conservation. Eligible candidates include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and educational institutions. Grants aim to address local needs while ensuring responsible environmental stewardship, enhancing community vitality, and fostering sustainable development.

The Kenneth B. and Mamie P. Clark Fund, established by the American Psychological Foundation, supports graduate students conducting research on self-identity and academic achievement in K-8 children. The fund honors the pioneering work of the Clarks, who highlighted the psychological effects of segregation. In 2024, the fund is specifically available for graduate students, emphasizing the importance of understanding the Clarks' contributions to psychology and race relations.

The Kenneth B. and Mamie P. Clark Fund, established by the American Psychological Foundation, offers support for early career psychologists researching the connection between self-identity and academic achievement in children K-8. This grant, alternating annually between psychologists and graduate students, aims to honor the Clarks' legacy in understanding race relations and addressing social issues. The fund fosters innovative projects that contribute to psychological research and the well-being of diverse communities.