Grant Opportunity: Penguin Random House & United for Libraries 2026 Rural and Small Libraries Grant Program

Penguin Random House and United for Libraries have announced a new 2026 grant program designed to support rural and small libraries across the country. The program aims to strengthen community connections and enhance fundraising capacity through financial and in-kind support for Friends of the Library groups and other nonprofit organizations that fundraise on behalf of their libraries.

A total of $25,000 in grants will be awarded, including:

• Cash grants of $500 or $1,000 to assist with priority projects that advance the library’s mission and community impact.
• In-kind book donation grants valued at $500 each to 20 libraries for the purchase of Penguin Random House titles.

The application period will be open December 17, 2025 – January 21, 2026, and award notifications will be sent by March 30, 2026.

Grants will be administered by United for Libraries: The Association of Library Trustees, Advocates, Friends and Foundations, whose mission is to empower those who govern, promote, and advocate for libraries of all types. Penguin Random House is providing the funding for this national initiative.

To help potential applicants, United for Libraries will host a series of free virtual informational sessions beginning in December. These will include:

• Two 30-minute overview sessions with tips for applying.
• A one-hour webinar featuring 2025 grant recipients sharing their experiences and projects.
• On-demand training sessions on grant writing basics and how to start a Friends of the Library group, ideal for libraries that do not yet have one.

In addition to financial or book donation support, grant recipients will receive a valuable professional development package that includes:

• Complimentary eLearning access from United for Libraries.
• One year of access to United for Libraries Learning Live monthly webinars, offering in-depth training for Trustees, Friends, Foundations, and advocates.
• Training on how to leverage grant funds to build support for the library and its Friends group.
• Complimentary registration for Friends of the Library Day at the United for Libraries Virtual Conference (July 30, 2026).
• Complimentary registration for the United for Libraries Friends Virtual Retreat (spring 2027).

This opportunity is an excellent way for small and rural libraries—and their Friends groups—to strengthen their fundraising capacity, develop new community partnerships, and expand access to high-quality resources.

For more information, including registration for informational sessions and application details, visit United for Libraries’ website.