(9 Aug 2023) The Council on Library and Information Resources (CLIR) is now accepting initial applications for Digitizing Hidden Special Collections and Archives: Amplifying Unheard Voices. Made possible through the generous support of the Mellon Foundation, this competitive program is dedicated to financing the digitization of rare and unique materials held by various collecting organizations.
The program’s objective is to encourage proposals for the digitization of materials that enrich the public’s understanding of the histories of underrepresented communities, particularly those of people of color and other marginalized populations. These are communities and perspectives that have not received adequate recognition or attention. By funding a second cohort encompassing academic, independent, and community-based organizations, CLIR aims to empower the creation of digital repositories that contain previously inaccessible or underutilized collections. This will lead to a wider appreciation of the significance of providing access to resources that tell the stories of historically marginalized individuals, groups, and communities, all within a framework of equitable and inclusive digital spaces.
CLIR will award grants ranging from $50,000 to $300,000 in the local currency of the recipient organizations. The awarded projects are scheduled to begin on January 1, 2025.
The application process has two stages. The initial application is open to eligible nonprofit collecting organizations located in the United States and Canada. Deadline for submission of proposals is set for 11:59 pm ET on November 1, 2023. During this stage, applicants are encouraged to effectively communicate the significance of the materials and the need for support through this grant. The program’s independent review panel will then select applicants whose initial proposals align closely with the program’s scope and reflect its core values. These selected applicants will be invited to submit a final proposal in early 2024. Detailed information about the application process can be found on the program’s Apply for an Award page.
More details can be found here.
