Grant size: $300 to $1,000
Application deadline: January 15
Background
The Rose and Samuel Rudman Library Trust was established in 1986 to help libraries better serve communities in Maine with a population of less than 10,000. Mr. Rudman frequently traveled throughout Maine, particularly Downeast, on business. He was struck by the commitment to learning and reading as evidenced by a library in the majority of towns he passed through, regardless of their size. He and Mrs. Rudman encourage libraries in smaller communities to continue and expand programming and outreach through the trust that bears their name.
Priorities
The trust encourages creative solutions to the challenges faced by small libraries by supporting the following activities. Please remember that integration with the collection is mandatory for programming and outreach activities:
- Lively programming, e.g., speakers, storytellers, book discussions, children's performers, or cultural events.
- Collections and programs tailored to meet unique local interests, e.g., history or "how-to"
- Sharing resources through collective purchasing and cooperatives
- Collaboration with community groups and agencies
- Digitizing special collections
Eligibility Requirements
The Rudman Library Trust supports programs and activities that creatively and practically integrate with a library’s collection in meaningful ways for its patrons. You must explain how your proposal will enhance patrons’ knowledge of the wealth of information in your library. For example, bring the collection to life by connecting:
- A new collection of DVD classics to a print display of related or the same books
- an author program with a month-long exploration of that particular genre
- a concert to a celebration of music in the children’s collection
The Rose and Samuel Rudman Library Trust invites applications from libraries serving communities in Maine with a population of less than 10,000 located in the following counties:
- Aroostook
- Hancock
- Knox
- Penobscot
- Piscataquis
- Waldo
- Washington
The trust does not provide support for capital and operational expenses (including staff salaries) or for resources that are otherwise freely available in the state. It does not support refreshments, prize incentives, or transportation. Requests for large-print books or materials and computer hardware or software will not be considered.
How to Apply
Applications are available through MaineCF offices or can be downloaded above. They must be postmarked by January 15 and mailed to:
Rose and Samuel Rudman Library Trust
Maine Community Foundation
245 Main Street
Ellsworth, ME 04605
Contact
For questions about the Rudman Library trust grants, please contact Jean Warren at the Maine Community Foundation (1-877-700-6800 or jwarren@mainecf.org) or Valerie Osborne, District Consultant for the Northern Maine Library District (1-800-427-8336 or valerie.osborne@bpl.lib.me.us).