Idaho Commission for Libraries: Bucks for Books Grant

Idaho Commission for Libraries: Bucks for Books Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Idaho Commission for Libraries
Amount: US $1,000 - US $3,000
Last Updated: August 17, 2025

Summary

The Idaho Commission for Libraries, in partnership with the Idaho Lottery Commission, offers the Bucks for Books Grant to support elementary school libraries in Idaho. With many schools facing budget constraints, this program provides funds ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 to help purchase age-appropriate books. This initiative aims to enhance reading resources for students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds, ensuring they have access to essential reading materials that support their academic growth.

Overview

The Idaho Commission for Libraries and the Idaho Lottery Commission have partnered to support Idaho’s elementary school libraries. Most elementary school libraries in Idaho have insufficient funds to provide high-quality, age-appropriate books for their students to read at school or take home. With about 43% of Idaho school children qualifying for free or reduced lunch, many students are unlikely to have their own collection of books at home. Consequently, many Idaho children do not have access to enough reading material to become proficient readers, the basis for all other academic learning. Thanks to the generosity of the Idaho Lottery Commission and those who play the lottery, Idaho’s elementary school libraries have the opportunity to apply for awards ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 to buy library books.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website.

Ineligibility

Schools that have already received a Bucks for Books Award are not eligible to apply.Schools that are participating in the School Library Access Mini-Grant program during the  school year should wait till next year to apply for Bucks for Books.