The mandate for spending ARPA funding is more restrictive that the CARES Act funding. IMLS directs us to enable organizations to reach residents with internet hotspots, accessible Wi-Fi, and other digital inclusion efforts, particularly in support of education, health, and workforce development needs. 

IMLS and Congress also intend that ARPA funding be used to provide rapid emergency relief, allowing communities to safely respond to the pandemic. This could include personal protective equipment (PPE) for reopening and safely providing services to your community. It can also include funding to continue programs put into place with CARES funding.

Though we cannot replace local funding or lost revenues, we can support services for special needs created by the pandemic, including some costs for personnel, technology, training, materials, supplies, equipment, and associated indirect costs.

You may read the official announcement here.

Washington State Library, a division of the Office of the Secretary of State, is responsible for administering some of these funds in our state. 

Your organization can request up to the amount WSL sent you in a separate email for any of the eligible programs and projects you wish to implement. The amounts are based on a formula based on type of organization and population served.

If you have any questions, please send an email to WSLgrants@sos.wa.gov.