This grant supports U.S. public libraries in fostering youth-led civic dialogue by providing funding, training, and resources to empower teens to lead conversations on civic issues in their communities.
Funder: Young Adult Library Services Association
Due Dates: Not specified (refer to program page for updates)
Funding Amounts: Grant funding for 10 public libraries (2026 cohort); includes training, tools, and resources.
Summary: Supports U.S. public libraries in becoming hubs for youth-led civic dialogue through funding, training, and resources.
Key Information: Application details and deadlines are available on the Cortico program page.
This grant program, organized by Cortico in collaboration with the MIT Center for Constructive Communication and PBS FRONTLINE, empowers public libraries in the United States to serve as centers for youth-led civic dialogue. The initiative aims to help libraries pilot new approaches to civic learning, foster youth leadership, build community connections, and enable local teens to lead conversations on civic issues that matter to them. Selected libraries receive not only funding but also training and tools to support these goals, with an emphasis on sharing successful models and experiences beyond their immediate communities.