Support for Public Libraries

The Carinthian state government provides public funds to sustainably secure the preservation and operation of public libraries in Carinthia. The aim of the funding is to strengthen both the media collection and the spatial equipment of these institutions, while simultaneously supporting reading promotion projects. The focus is on the acquisition of books, audiobooks, and digital media, the expansion of furnishings and equipment, as well as the organization of readings, events, and other projects to enhance reading skills. In this way, an attractive and diverse offering is created that promotes the joy of reading and media literacy in the region.

Eligible for funding are public, mixed, and church libraries as well as their sponsors. A formal funding commitment and a financial contribution from the legal sponsors are prerequisites for a grant. The evaluation of applications is based on criteria such as the size of the media collection, the annual turnover rate, the renewal rate, the media mix including training and further education, opening hours, and participation in statewide projects. Eligible expenses include, in addition to media acquisition, furnishings, equipment, readings, and events. A financial and usage report is required for the application. Since this is a continuously open measure, applications can be submitted at any time, providing long-term planning security for all library locations in Carinthia.