Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft recently announced that on Monday, October 31, his office awarded 27 technology mini-grants to several Missouri libraries totaling $325,370. The Marshall Public Library is an $11,000 grant with this announcement.

The grants provide funds to public libraries to assist with funding technology and automation-related equipment, other hardware, and software to improve network infrastructure. Funds can also be used to purchase new equipment in order to improve library services.

“Missouri’s libraries serve as vital resource hubs for their communities,” Ashcroft said. “These grants provide libraries with the technology they need to expand services to better meet the needs of their patrons.”

Grants are administered through an application process and awarded based on justified need as well as the library’s ability to effectively oversee the funds to bring the project to fruition.

“Technology mini-grants give Missouri’s libraries the opportunity to upgrade existing technology or use technology to try new, innovative projects,” said State Librarian Robin Westphal. “Grants like this have been a mainstay of the Missouri State Library for years, and we are excited to announce this year’s recipients of these competitive grants.”

Since January 1, 2022, Ashcroft’s office – through the Missouri State Library – has awarded 163 grants totaling $2,036,269.88. Below is the full list of recipients for this year’s grants: