How to apply

Grants are normally given to existing libraries or collections in the UK but, in certain instances, support may be available for the purchase of books in the setting up of new collections.  At present a total of approximately £10,000 per annum is distributed.  The trustees are particularly keen to support institutions that have little or no existing funding for a library. 

Most grants offered are small (between £250 and £2,500) which enables some support to be offered to a wider number of institutions. 

Current funding priorities are: 

• libraries in small Christian institutions. 

• libraries which provide some degree of public access. 

• institutions where adult education, religious study and development are encouraged, including chaplaincies and local ministry training.

See below for a grant application form, booklist proforma and guidance notes.  Please click on the 'Pop out' box (a square with a diagonal arrow in it) in the top right hand corner of each document and download them to your computer before completing and returning the Booklist Proforma and Grant Application Form to the clerk, preferably by email.  

Due to the large number of applications and in order to support the greatest number of applicants, preference is given to requests for single copies and we regret that we are normally unable to fund: 

• individuals  

• individual parish churches *

• class sets * 

• multiple copies  

• music sets 

• journal subscriptions 

• out of print / second hand books generally 

For more information, please email the Clerk. 

The next deadline for grant applications will be Sunday the 18 October 2026.  To ensure that you are notified of any future application deadlines, sign up for our twice yearly reminder. 

* Public libraries, school libraries and church libraries may be able to benefit from the grants offered by the charity,  Speaking Volumes.