Who is eligible to apply?
Any library or library system that is a Full, Associate, or Affiliate member of RRLC or a member of one of its member systems (Monroe County Library System; Pioneer Library System; Monroe #1 BOCES SLS; Monroe #2-Orleans BOCES SLS; Genesee Valley BOCES SLS; WFL BOCES SLS; Rochester City School District). First preference is given to Full, Associate or Affiliate (i.e. dues paying) members of RRLC.
What do the grants provide?
The grants provide subsidies to libraries or library systems so they may work with marketing and communications professionals recruited by the Ad Council of Rochester (http://www.adcouncilroch.org). The Ad Council provides set programs meant to help non-profits increase their marketing and communications knowledge, handle marketing and communications problems, and create marketing plans. Check under “Services” on their website.
When are the grants awarded?
The grant year runs July – June. Information on the grants is sent to our listservs in late August or early September. Awards are made in October/November. NOTE: This program, as with all RRLC services, depends upon State funding. It is possible that in any one year, RRLC may not be able to fund these awards because of cuts to state funding.
How much are the grants?
In past years, grant awards per library have ranged from $500 to $2,500, but awards usually do not exceed $1,000.
Other than being an RRLC member or member of an RRLC member library system, what are the other criteria for selection?
The application process is meant to be simple. We just need a clear and concise statement of need; a statement on how it will help your library/system achieve its mission; a clear indication that the library/system has the staff resources to undertake and complete the work with the Ad Council, and the applicant must attend one of the “qualifying sessions” held each fall by RRLC and the Ad Council which explains the services offered. A statement on how the library/system will share its experiences with the RRLC community also is helpful, since we want others to know the value of this service.
Who makes the selection and when?
Selection is made by RRLC staff within two weeks of the application deadline.
Must our library/system be able to pay part of the cost?
No, this is not required. However, limited funds are available and we encourage libraries/systems to pay a portion of the cost if possible. Ad Council services offered under this grant range in cost from $500 - $2,500. RRLC mini-grants can provide the full cost.
What are the requirements from RRLC if we are selected?
The selected libraries/systems will be responsible for making the contact with the Ad Council, working in good faith on a timely basis with the Ad Council, providing a final report to RRLC after the completion of the work, and be willing to share your experiences with the rest of the RRLC community.
I’ve heard that there is a “qualifying session” that applicants must attend. What is this?
In order to receive a mini-grant, the applicant must attend a session conducted by the Ad Council which explains in detail the services/programs they offer and also explains the work expected from the client library/system. You should attend the qualifying session before submitting an application.