They may use the grant for on-going institutional activities, such as enhancing educational services, strengthening collections care and developing community programs. The grants provide national recognition for museums that have the highest approval of their peers. It is a stamp of achievement that sparks vital public-private partnerships. Museums that qualify for General Operating Support grants demonstrate outstanding performance in all areas of museum operations. Professionals in the museum field, with an average of 13 years of experience, evaluate each application.
Museums spend their grants over a two-year period.
IMLS consists of an Office of the Director, Office of Museum Services, Office of Library Services, and Office of Research and Technology.