General Information
General Informations
The KFA state funds from the Hessian Ministry of Science and Art (HMWK) and the support from the Hessian Public Library Specialist Office are intended to specifically promote public libraries in Hesse in order to sustainably support and further develop their roles as educational, cultural, and meeting places. The funds from the Municipal Financial Equalization (KFA) pursue the following main objectives:
Promotion of Infrastructure: The state funds enable modernization and expansion of the spatial and technical infrastructure of libraries. This includes, for example, investments in:
- Accessibility.
- Digital equipment (such as PCs, tablets, Wi-Fi).
- Renovation and expansion of library spaces.
Acquisition of Media and Resources: With these funds, libraries can expand and update their media collections to reach a broad target audience. This includes:
- Books, magazines, and newspapers.
- Digital media such as databases and streaming services.
- Special learning and teaching materials.
Support for Projects and Programs: The funds are used to promote innovative and target-specific projects, such as:
- Reading promotion programs for children and adolescents.
- Programs for enhancing digital skills for adults and seniors.
- Integration offers, such as language and cultural projects for migrants.
Strengthening Digitalization: A central focus is on supporting digital transformation, for example, through:
- Establishment of makerspaces.
- Introduction of self-checkout systems.
- Development of online libraries and digital platforms.
Promotion of Collaborations: The funds can be used to strengthen cooperation between libraries, schools, cultural institutions, and other educational establishments.
Quality Enhancement and Future Viability: The state funds support libraries in working with a future-oriented approach, including:
- Adapting to changing societal and demographic requirements.
- Developing attractive meeting spaces.
- Promoting further education and qualification measures.
Goal of the Funding:
The KFA state funds are intended to ensure that public libraries in Hesse:
- Are easily accessible educational and cultural places open to all citizens.
- Contribute to promoting equal opportunities and lifelong learning.
- Meet the requirements of the digital society.
- Play a central role in municipal and cultural life.