The federal Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is providing over $4.1 million in grant funding for eight projects designed to turn these American cultural institutions into learning spaces for AI literacy. A recent news release from IMLS said the investment is part of a strategic federal push to leverage museums and libraries as "catalysts for AI learning and workforce preparation," consistent with the Trump administration’s AI education priorities that prompted the AI Action Plan and a 2025 executive order focused on expanding tech education.
“As AI reshapes our economy, museums and libraries have a critical role to play in ensuring every American has access to AI literacy,” U.S. Deputy Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling said in a public statement. “These grants will help institutions across the country, from small libraries in rural communities to large museums in major cities, build the foundational AI skills that Americans need to succeed in the AI era.”
Michael Kratsios, director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, said equipping libraries and museums is necessary to ensure every American has access to AI literacy resources.
"These IMLS grants are an important step in expanding AI education beyond traditional classrooms and into the community institutions that reach Americans in every corner of our country," Kratsios said in a public statement.
According to IMLS, the funded projects span from hands-on childhood exploration to professional upskilling. At the University of Oklahoma, for example, researchers will embed generative AI tools into maker-based learning programs for kids at public libraries, and the University of South Carolina will produce a national, open-access curriculum for high school librarians.
Other initiatives also aim to support career training. North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University will establish the Artificial Intelligence Catalyst Institute, an online community of practice and professional development hub for library professionals. Purdue University, too, will work to bridge the technical skills gap by developing online modules to train librarians to lead AI projects, with both coding and no-code options for different skill levels.
Lastly, through its Advancing AI in America initiative, the Museum of Science will offer exhibits, digital tools and K-12 programs to boost student interest in AI careers and increase teacher confidence in navigating the technology.
According to its website, IMLS encourages eligible institutions to apply for the next series of funding by March 13, 2026.
