General Library Grants

General Library Grants

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Tocker Foundation
Last Updated: November 28, 2025

Summary

The Tocker Foundation offers General Library Grants aimed at enhancing library services and programs in rural Texas communities with populations of 12,000 or less. Grants support various initiatives including technology upgrades, collection development, and community outreach. Applications are reviewed biannually by a committee from the Texas Library Association, ensuring that funds are allocated to projects that significantly benefit local patrons. Libraries are encouraged to discuss their proposals in advance to align with funding priorities.

Overview

Library Grants Through our philanthropic efforts, the board members have seen inroads made towards many improvements in services and programs in the library. Expanded patron spaces, library automation, computer/internet accessibility, updated collections and a variety of social services all contribute to the rural library's role as a community anchor and gathering place. Past grants have supported collection development, technology and hardware, programming, furniture and shelving, outreach and many other projects initiated by the community’s patrons. Grant applications are evaluated twice a year by a permanent, appointed committee of the Texas Library Association. The board of directors makes all final decisions. Library grants are not limited to the categories listed here. We encourage you to call our office and discuss your proposed project well before you are ready to submit your application.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Which libraries qualify for a Tocker Foundation Grant?Communities in the state of Texas that serve a population of 12,000 or less according to statistics from the Texas State Library database.  County libraries may use the city population rather than the assigned county population when determining the eligibility.

Ineligibility

Funding will not be considered for: Debt Service Endowment Funds Normal Operating Expenses Salaries Employee Benefits Construction Carpeting Electrical Other infrastructure needs that are typically supported by the municipality E-readers Membership fees for providers