Opportunity Overview
Open now to eligible Nebraska public libraries. The American Library Association Public Programs Office, in collaboration with Cummins Inc., is accepting applications for A Year of STEM, a 12-month early-childhood STEM programming initiative. Twenty-five U.S. public libraries will be selected for the February 2027 through January 2028 project period.
Funding and Benefits
Each selected library receives a $5,000 programming stipend, four STEM kits delivered quarterly, an A Year of STEM programming guide, promotional templates, virtual training, access to an ALA Connect peer group, and implementation support from ALA.
Eligibility
Eligible institutions are public libraries, including tribal libraries, in the United States and U.S. territories. Individuals are not eligible. Nebraska public libraries are eligible under the published national criteria.
Allowable Stipend Uses
The $5,000 stipend may support programming-related expenses such as presenter honoraria, educational materials, student field-trip transportation, library staff time, marketing and publicity, STEM-kit materials, program supplies, and printing.
Host Requirements
Selected libraries must sign an ALA contract; appoint a project director; host at least two programs each quarter, including a hands-on STEM program and STEM storytime; host an additional family program in November 2027; complete required training; promote the programming; participate in evaluation activities; and submit a final report through ALA Apply.
Application and Deadline
Applications are submitted online through ALA Apply. New accounts require library organization information, including EIN/Tax ID, submitter contact information, executive officer information when applicable, and a password. ALA requires applications to be submitted by October 28, 2026 at 11:59 PM Central Time through ALA Apply. The official FAQ now supplies the controlling time zone, so this opportunity is fully deadline-verified for publication and Nebraska applicant evaluation.
Review Criteria
ALA will evaluate clarity and completeness, the quality and comprehensiveness of the programming plan, demonstrated community need, and institutional support. Geographic location, community size, and demographics may also influence final site selection.
Atlas Analysis
Atlas Opportunity Score: 72/100. This is a well-documented education opportunity with clear public-library eligibility, a defined application process, and direct relevance to early-childhood STEM programming in Nebraska.
N9+ Fit: 0/100. The opportunity supports library STEM programming and does not establish a clinical, telehealth, diagnostic, remote-care, or related N9+ procurement purpose. Dr. Miltie direct-applicant/direct-vendor fit: 0/100. Only eligible public libraries may apply, so any Atlas involvement would be applicant-support work rather than a direct Dr. Miltie submission.
Official Source
American Library Association — A Year of STEM Project Guidelines