The Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) is the only federal program exclusively for libraries. It is administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). State libraries use the funds to support statewide initiatives and also distribute the funds through subgrants or cooperative agreements to public, school, academic, research, and special libraries. There is a requirement for a state match, which helps stimulate approximately three to four dollars for every federal dollar invested.
LSTA consolidates federal library programs, while expanding services for learning and access to information resources in all types of libraries for individuals of all ages. LSTA links libraries electronically and helps provide users access to information through state, regional, national, and international networks. In many states, the state library network provides enriched content databases for information access to all in the state.
Around the country, knowledgeable librarians use LSTA funding to help patrons access essential information on a wide range of topics. They offer training on résumé development; help on web searches of job banks; workshops on career information; links to essential educational and community services; assistive devices for people with disabilities; family literacy classes; homework help and mentoring programs; information on religions and other cultures; access to government information; a forum for enhanced civic engagement; and so much more.
For example, rhe Connecticut State Library uses LSTA funds to provide all state residents with online access to essential library and information resources, including licensed databases, a statewide library catalog and interlibrary loan system, and the electronic and physical delivery of resources. Specialized research information is made available to students and faculty. Recent activity has promoted awareness of all Digital Library Services and their use is increasing dramatically. The Digital Library has saved over $20 million for Connecticut taxpayers.
LSTA was reauthorized as part of the Museum and Library Services Act of 2003 (H.R. 13) and signed by the President on September 25, 2003 (P.L. 108-81). LSTA is up for reauthorization in 2009.
Every fiscal year, Congress provides funding for LSTA in the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill. Federal resources help target library services to people of diverse geographic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds, to individuals with disabilities, and to people with limited literacy skills.
In 2003, when LSTA was reauthorized, Congress provided a new formula based on a more equitable distribution of state formula grants. A strictly population-based formula would not be fair to the small states; the reason Congress legislated a formula that begins with a state minimum of $340,000. In 2003, all of the states and Congress agreed that the base should be doubled to $680,000 to help even the playing field for the small states. With $171.5 million we can finally provide small states with the amount Congress intended in the 2003 reauthorization while ensuring that large states don't face an undue burden to achieve that.
Allotment of LSTA state grant funds by state
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