Library Construction and Modernization Act of 2026

This Act may be cited as the Library Construction and Modernization Act of 2026 .

(a) Program established. The Director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services shall award grants, on a competitive basis, to eligible entities to carry out one or more of the activities described in subsection (c).

(b) Application. An eligible entity desiring a grant under this section shall submit an application to the Director at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Director may require.

(c) Use of funds. An eligible entity that receives a grant under this section shall use the grant funds to carry out one or more of the following activities: (1) Constructing or acquiring a building for use as a public library, including— (A) acquiring land for such construction; or (B) building an addition to an existing public library. (2) Rehabilitating or renovating a building for use as a public library, including— (A) increasing energy efficiency; (B) creating collaborative activity spaces; or (C) upgrading or modernizing such building for compliance with Federal health and safety standards. (3) Repairing or renovating a public library building, or mechanical system or component of such building, that is deteriorated, broken, or worn— (A) including repairs to— (i) roofing; (ii) flooring; (iii) lighting; (iv) plumbing; (v) heating, ventilation, or air conditioning systems; or (vi) other necessary mechanical systems or components to keep such building in efficient operating condition; and (B) excluding custodial maintenance work that is not part of a project described in subparagraph (A) or paragraph (1) or (2).

(d) Federal share. The Federal share of the cost of an activity carried out using grant funds awarded under this section shall not be greater than 50 percent.

(e) Eligible entity defined. In this section, the term eligible entity means— (1) a State; (2) a local government; or (3) an agency or instrumentality of a State or local government.