Better World Books is offering its 2026 Literacy Grants to support libraries and community-focused programs that improve access to books and learning resources. Grants prioritize public, school, and community libraries, with an emphasis on underserved communities and book deserts. Eligible organizations include non-profits and tax-exempt entities in the US, UK, Canada, or Ireland.

Overview

The Better World Books 2026 Literacy Grants provide funding to literacy-focused organizations to strengthen access to books and educational opportunities. This annual initiative highlights the role of libraries—public, school, and community—in fostering reading, curiosity, and lifelong learning.

The 2026 grant cycle focuses on the theme Libraries & Literacy Access, promoting innovative and community-centered projects that expand opportunities for readers and learners.

Objectives of the Grant

The grants aim to:

• Support libraries and literacy programs in underserved communities

• Increase access to books through innovative and sustainable methods

• Enhance library services and community engagement

• Serve book deserts and populations with limited access to learning resources

• Promote lifelong reading habits and educational equity

Eligible Project Activities

Funded initiatives may include:

• Developing new library programs or expanding existing ones

• Creating mobile or pop-up libraries to reach underserved areas

• Implementing innovative methods for readers to access books

• Enhancing literacy-based programming for children, youth, and adults

• Providing resources and learning opportunities for book deserts and marginalized communities

Funding Details

• Grant type: 2026 Literacy Grants

• Targeted organizations: Public libraries, school libraries, community libraries, and non-profits supporting literacy

• Scope: Projects may be implemented locally or internationally, though the organization must be based in an eligible country

• Supported countries: United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Ireland

The grant funding aims to advance innovative literacy programs that demonstrate measurable impact in expanding access to books and learning resources.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible organizations include:

• Non-profits with 501(c)(3) or recognized tax-exempt status

• Libraries, preschools, public schools, nurseries, churches, and community centers

• Organizations based in the US, UK, Canada, or Ireland

• Projects may be implemented outside the organization’s home country, provided the organization manages and oversees the initiative

How to Apply – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Ensure your organization meets tax-exempt requirements and is based in a supported country.

Step 2: Define Your Project

Detail how your initiative improves access to books and learning opportunities, especially in underserved communities.

Step 3: Prepare a Budget

Outline costs required to implement your literacy project, including staff, materials, or program resources.

Step 4: Submit Application

Apply through the Better World Books grant portal, providing project descriptions, intended outcomes, and supporting documents.

Step 5: Implementation and Reporting

If awarded, execute your project and report on outcomes, demonstrating impact on access to books, library services, and literacy development.

Why This Grant Matters

• Promotes literacy: Expands reading and learning opportunities for all ages

• Supports community libraries: Strengthens local access points for books and resources

• Addresses educational inequities: Targets underserved communities and book deserts

• Encourages innovation: Supports creative and practical methods for improving literacy

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying without tax-exempt or non-profit status

• Proposing projects with limited community or library impact

• Submitting incomplete or vague project descriptions

• Failing to clearly outline measurable literacy outcomes

• Ignoring geographic eligibility requirements

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for the grant?

Libraries, schools, non-profits, and community organizations with tax-exempt status based in the US, UK, Canada, or Ireland.

2. Can projects be implemented outside the organization’s home country?

Yes, as long as the applying organization manages and oversees the project.

3. What types of projects are funded?

Library programs, mobile or pop-up libraries, literacy initiatives, access expansion, and community-centered education projects.

4. Are individual applicants eligible?

No, only organizations with recognized non-profit or tax-exempt status may apply.

5. What is the main focus of the grants?

Increasing access to books, strengthening library programs, and addressing literacy gaps in underserved communities.

6. Can schools apply?

Yes, public schools and school libraries with tax-exempt or non-profit status are eligible.

Conclusion

The Better World Books 2026 Literacy Grants empower libraries and literacy organizations to expand access to books, learning resources, and educational opportunities. By funding innovative, community-centered projects, the program fosters equitable literacy, strengthens library services, and addresses barriers to reading in underserved populations.