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State Aid to Libraries Grant Agreement With Department of State for FY 2026-27 Funding
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BRIEF OVERVIEW
The State of Florida provides annual funding through the State Aid to Libraries Grant Program to support free public library services for Florida residents. Grant funds may be used toward the operation and maintenance of public libraries.
Under Chapter 257, Florida Statutes, and Laws of Florida, Chapter 92-294, the Hernando County Public Library System is eligible to receive State Aid funding to support county-wide library services. Preliminary grant funding for fiscal year 2027 is estimated at $467,962.
To be eligible for funding, the Grant Agreement and required supporting documents must be submitted to the Florida Department of State (DOS), Division of Library and Information Services, by October 1, 2026. As part of the requirements, the Library must also submit a current Annual Plan of Service approved by the Board of County Commissioners.
STRATEGIC PLAN INITIATIVES
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FINANCIAL IMPACT
This funding has been included in the FY 27 budget.
LEGAL NOTE
The Board has the authority to act upon this matter pursuant to Section 125.01(1), Florida Statutes.
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RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended the Board approve and authorize the Chairman’s signature on the attached State Aid to Libraries Grant Agreement, Certification of Hours, approve the Annual Plan of Service 2026-2027, and authorize staff to electronically submit the required application and documents to the State.