Libraries Eligible for LSTA

In Iowa, LSTA provides funding for library development programs; statewide access to online reference databases such as EBSCOhost and FirstSearch; and support of the State of Iowa Libraries Online (SILO) network.  Iowa libraries of all types are eligible for these services.  Any Iowa library that falls within the following definitions and does not have access to these services should contact Sandy Dixon or Mary Wegner for further information.

For purposes of LSTA eligibility, the State Library uses the definition of a library or library consortium specified in federal law: LSTA (20 USC Sec. 9101-9176, Ch. 72 - Museum and Library Services) Subch. II, Sec. 9122:

"(2) The term "library" includes--

(A) a public library;
(B) a public elementary school or secondary school library;
(C) an academic library;
(D) a research library, which for the purposes of this subtitle means a library that--

(i) makes publicly available library services and materials suitable for scholarly research and not otherwise available to the public; and
(ii) is not an integral part of an institution of higher education; and

(E) a private library, or other special library, but only if the State in which such private or special library is located determines that the library should be considered a library for purposes of this subchapter.

(3) The term "library consortium" means any local, statewide, regional, interstate, or international cooperative association of library entities which provides for the systematic and effective coordination of the resources of school, public, academic and special libraries and information centers, for improved services for the clientele of such library entitles."

The State Library of Iowa further defines libraries eligible for LSTA funding as having:

• An ordinance establishing the library (applies to public libraries only)

• A fixed location in Iowa

• Established hours of service

• An organized collection of information and materials accessible for use by its primary clientele

• A written mission statement and service objectives

• An established funding based

• Designated, onsite, paid staff to provide library services.