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Space Utilization Grants

Space Utilization Grants Status

The Space Utilization Grants program is on an indefinite hiatus beginning FY25.

The State Library began offering Space Utilization grants in 1994. Since then, hundreds of Iowa libraries have received one of these grants to help use library space more effectively and efficiently. The State Library now plans to review the grant program and while on hiatus offer additional training opportunities on space planning that will be open to more librarians statewide.

The State Library allocates federal funds to provide Iowa public libraries subgrants for consulting services on better utilization of the existing library space. These grants reimburse fees for professional advice from impartial consultants who provide guidance and recommendations to library directors, city officials and the community about use of existing space. The library space utilization grants have been funded by the State Library since FY94.

Grants of up to $3,000 will be awarded as funds are available. A library may only receive one library utilization grant.

Grant Timeline

The FY24 Space Utilization Grant application period will open on Monday, Nov. 6, 2023 in IowaGrants.gov. Up to six grants will be awarded to public libraries. The grant period will close Sunday, Mar. 31, 2024 or when six grants have been awarded. Grant projects must be completed by the end of the fiscal year on June 30, 2024.

Eligible and Ineligible Uses

Grants may be requested for the following consultation services:

  • Space Needs Assessment: Consultant will help make the best use of the current space in the library, and determine the area needed for the library's programs and services.
  • Building Program Review: Consultant will assist the library in writing and/or reviewing the library's building program statement.
  • ADA Compliance Evaluation and Planning: Consultant will advise on the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for libraries.

LSTA funds for library utilization consultation may NOT be used for the following services:

  • Architect or engineer services
  • Equipment, installation, or implementation of the plan
  • Library furnishings
  • Fundraising
  • Written summary of project activities or outcomes
  • Written evaluation of the impact of the project on customer service

Staff Contact

For more information or questions, contact Jay Peterson.

IMLS LogoSpace Utilization Grants are supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by the State Library of Iowa.

Additional Resources

The State Library has gathered additional resources to help with your library space needs. The resources below offer tools to start thinking about your library space and how to better utilize the existing square footage.

One of your best resources is your District Consultant. Your consultant has seen many different library layouts and can help brainstorm ideas and offer tips and tricks to freshen up a library. Contact them to discuss your space challenges and needs.

Public Library Space Needs Assessment 
from the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction

​​​​​​This assessment breaks down the areas needed in a public library. You can enter your library space numbers into their formulas and calculate the recommended needed space based on standard populations. It covers work space, reader sitting, collection space, meeting room space, and uncategorized spaces.

Library Space: A Planning Resource for Librarians 
from The Massachusetts Libraries Board of Library Commissioners and Sasaki Design firm

This free PDF eBook breaks down library space into color-coded zones. It also shows examples of how to think constructively about library space to provide great public service while allowing for efficient library operations. The design theory in the book gives examples of small to large libraries and has the advantage of having well designed graphical examples to help educate stakeholders and board members about your plans for library space.

Space Planning Guide and Worksheet 
from the Connecticut State Library

Using this guide and its accompanying worksheet, librarians and trustees can obtain a general estimate of their library's space needs and help initiate a larger facility planning process. The Division of Library Development updated this guide and worksheet in 2021.