OpenCourser brand icon
Sign in
We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Course image
edX logo

Grant Writing and Crowdfunding for Public Libraries

Kristin Fontichiaro

This course, part of the Public Library Management Professional Certificate program, explores strategies for developing effective grant proposals and for engaging the community in crowdfunding campaigns.

In this course, you will mock up a crowdfunding campaign and create a grant proposal for a local or state-level funding source.

Read more

This course, part of the Public Library Management Professional Certificate program, explores strategies for developing effective grant proposals and for engaging the community in crowdfunding campaigns.

In this course, you will mock up a crowdfunding campaign and create a grant proposal for a local or state-level funding source.

What you'll learn

  • How to read a grant application and understand what organizations are looking for
  • How to keep a file of go-to grant writing materials
  • Strategies for crafting a strong grant proposal
  • Crowdfunding stories and strategies
Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • How to read a grant application and understand what organizations are looking for
  • How to keep a file of go-to grant writing materials
  • Strategies for crafting a strong grant proposal
  • Crowdfunding stories and strategies

Syllabus

Weekly themes tentatively scheduled to include:
Introduction
Reviewing grant criteria and sponsors
Building a team and a vision
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops skills for fundraising in public libraries
Teaches how to articulate a vision for grant applications
Taught by instructors Kristin Fontichiaro
Covers materials necessary for grant writing
Taught strategies for crafting successful grant proposals
Examines case studies on crowdfunding

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Grant writing for library professionals

According to students, this course is an incredibly practical and essential resource for public library staff seeking to enhance their fundraising skills. Learners particularly praise the comprehensive grant writing modules, which provide clear, actionable advice and hands-on experience through invaluable mock proposal assignments. While the crowdfunding section is noted as being somewhat lighter, it still offers valuable ideas for community engagement. The course is seen as a solid introduction, highly beneficial for those new to the field or looking to refine their approach to securing funding.
Provides valuable insights but could be more in-depth.
"The crowdfunding section was a bit light compared to grant writing, but still offered valuable insights."
"The crowdfunding part felt a bit tacked on but still offered some relevant ideas."
"The crowdfunding content, while useful, felt less developed."
Excellent for those new to fundraising, less so for advanced learners.
"I felt it was a bit too introductory for someone with some prior experience in non-profit fundraising."
"It's truly a beginner-level course."
"While the content is relevant for public libraries, I was hoping for more advanced techniques or case studies."
"This is a good primer for total beginners."
Tailored content highly relevant to public library needs.
"Very focused on grant writing... I liked the focus on public libraries, as many other courses are too general."
"This course is absolutely essential for public library staff."
"The focus on public libraries is key, as funding unique needs."
Practical exercises solidify learning and build confidence.
"The assignments, especially the mock proposal, were very useful for hands-on learning."
"The practical exercises, especially creating a grant proposal draft, were invaluable."
"The hands-on projects, like drafting proposals, really solidify the learning."
Comprehensive and actionable grant proposal strategies.
"The module on assembling a grant proposal was particularly helpful."
"The course breaks down complex topics like grant applications into manageable steps."
"The grant writing modules are comprehensive and practical."
"I now feel much more confident in reading applications and understanding what funders truly seek."
Directly applicable skills for library professionals.
"This course was incredibly practical and directly applicable to my work as a public librarian."
"I immediately started using the templates and strategies for local funding."
"I gained valuable skills to apply directly to my work."
"I learned how to use practical tools and strategies that I could apply immediately to my work."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Grant Writing and Crowdfunding for Public Libraries with these activities:
Enroll in online crowdfunding courses or watch crowdfunding webinars
Enhance your understanding of crowdfunding strategies and best practices from experts.
Browse courses on Crowdfunding
Show steps
  • Research and identify reputable online crowdfunding courses or webinars
  • Enroll in a course or register for a webinar
  • Actively participate in the course or webinar
  • Take notes and apply the lessons learned
Read "Grant Writing for Dummies " by Beverly A. Browning
Review the basics of grant writing and the processes for grant writing before the course begins.
View Nonprofit Management All-in-One For Dummies... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Purchase the book Grant Writing for Dummies by Beverly A. Browning
  • Read each chapter and take notes on the fundamentals of grants
  • Complete the exercises and examples in each chapter
Participate in a grant writing workshop or join a grant writing support group
Collaborate with peers to share knowledge, receive feedback, and improve grant writing skills.
Browse courses on Grant Writing
Show steps
  • Research and identify relevant grant writing workshops or support groups
  • Register for a workshop or join a support group
  • Actively participate in group discussions and activities
  • Share your grant writing experiences and knowledge with others
  • Provide feedback and support to fellow group members
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Develop a social media campaign to promote your crowdfunding campaign
Utilize social media to raise awareness and generate support for your crowdfunding efforts.
Browse courses on Crowdfunding
Show steps
  • Establish social media goals and objectives
  • Identify target audience and conduct research
  • Create engaging content and visuals
  • Identify relevant hashtags and keywords
  • Schedule and post content consistently
Practice writing grant proposals
Complete practice grant proposals to develop writing skills and apply the knowledge gained in the course.
Show steps
  • Identify a local or state-level funding source
  • Review the grant guidelines and requirements for your selected source
  • Draft a grant proposal based on the guidelines
  • Seek feedback on your draft from a mentor, peer, or instructor
  • Revise and submit your final grant proposal
Organize and review your grant writing notes, materials, and resources
Consolidate your resources to improve organization and prepare for future grant writing endeavors.
Browse courses on Grant Writing
Show steps
  • Gather all your grant writing materials, including notes, handouts, articles, and templates.
  • Organize the materials into a logical structure or system.
  • Review the materials to refresh your knowledge and identify areas for improvement.
  • Discard any outdated or irrelevant materials.

Career center

Learners who complete Grant Writing and Crowdfunding for Public Libraries will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Grant Writer
Grant Writers help organizations secure funding for their programs and initiatives. This course can help you develop the skills needed to write compelling grant proposals, including how to read and understand grant criteria, assemble a grant proposal, and build a team and a vision. Whether you are an experienced Grant Writer seeking to advance your career, or are looking to transition into this field, this course may be useful as you explore strategies for crafting a strong grant proposal.
See salaries and explore the career path for Grant Writer
Proposal Development Consultant
Proposal Development Consultants help organizations develop and submit proposals for grants, contracts, and other funding opportunities. By taking this course you will gain a better understanding of what organizations are looking for in a grant proposal, as well as develop your own strategies for crafting a strong proposal. Whether you are an experienced Proposal Development Consultant or someone looking to enter the field, this course will help you build a foundation in the skills needed to succeed in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Proposal Development Consultant
Executive Director
Executive Directors are responsible for the overall leadership and management of nonprofit organizations. They often oversee fundraising, program development, and strategic planning. This course will help you develop the skills needed to be an effective Executive Director, including how to read and understand grant criteria, assemble a grant proposal, and build a team and a vision. Whether you are an experienced Executive Director or someone looking to move into this role, this course may be useful as you explore strategies for leading a nonprofit organization.
See salaries and explore the career path for Executive Director
Program Director
Program Directors are responsible for the planning, implementation, and evaluation of programs and services within an organization. They often work with donors and other stakeholders to secure funding for their programs. This course can help you develop the skills needed to be an effective Program Director, including how to read and understand grant criteria, assemble a grant proposal, and build a team and a vision. Whether you are an experienced Program Director or someone looking to move into this role, this course may be useful as you explore strategies for leading a successful program.
See salaries and explore the career path for Program Director
Development Director
Development Directors are responsible for fundraising and donor relations for nonprofit organizations. They often work with Executive Directors and Program Directors to identify funding opportunities and develop strategies for securing funding. This course will help you develop the skills needed to be an effective Development Director, including how to read and understand grant criteria, assemble a grant proposal, and build a team and a vision. Whether you are an experienced Development Director or someone looking to move into this role, this course may be useful as you explore strategies for leading a successful fundraising program.
See salaries and explore the career path for Development Director
Public relations manager
Public Relations Managers are responsible for managing the public image of an organization. They often work with the media and other stakeholders to promote the organization's mission and goals. This course will help you develop the skills needed to be an effective Public Relations Manager, including how to read and understand grant criteria, assemble a grant proposal, and build a team and a vision. Whether you are an experienced Public Relations Manager or someone looking to move into this role, this course may be useful as you explore strategies for leading a successful public relations campaign.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public relations manager
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers are responsible for developing and implementing marketing strategies for organizations. They often work with Public Relations Managers and other stakeholders to promote the organization's mission and goals. This course will help you develop the skills needed to be an effective Marketing Manager, including how to read and understand grant criteria, assemble a grant proposal, and build a team and a vision. Whether you are an experienced Marketing Manager or someone looking to move into this role, this course may be useful as you explore strategies for reaching your target audience.
See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager
Fundraiser
Fundraisers are responsible for raising money for nonprofit organizations. They often work with Development Directors and other stakeholders to identify funding opportunities and develop strategies for securing funding. This course will help you develop the skills needed to be an effective Fundraiser, including how to read and understand grant criteria, assemble a grant proposal, and build a team and a vision. Whether you are an experienced Fundraiser or someone looking to move into this role, this course may be useful as you explore strategies for leading a successful fundraising campaign.
See salaries and explore the career path for Fundraiser
Community Outreach Coordinator
Community Outreach Coordinators are responsible for developing and implementing community outreach programs. They often work with other stakeholders to identify the needs of the community and develop strategies for addressing those needs. This course will help you develop the skills needed to be an effective Community Outreach Coordinator, including how to read and understand grant criteria, assemble a grant proposal, and build a team and a vision. Whether you are an experienced Community Outreach Coordinator or someone looking to move into this role, this course may be useful as you explore strategies for engaging with the community.
See salaries and explore the career path for Community Outreach Coordinator
Grant Reviewer
Grant Reviewers are responsible for reviewing and evaluating grant proposals. They often work with Program Directors and other stakeholders to make funding decisions. This course will help you develop the skills needed to be an effective Grant Reviewer, including how to read and understand grant criteria, assemble a grant proposal, and build a team and a vision. Whether you are an experienced Grant Reviewer or someone looking to move into this role, this course may be useful as you explore strategies for evaluating grant proposals.
See salaries and explore the career path for Grant Reviewer
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Managers are responsible for the overall management of nonprofit organizations. They often oversee fundraising, program development, and strategic planning. This course will help you develop the skills needed to be an effective Nonprofit Manager, including how to read and understand grant criteria, assemble a grant proposal, and build a team and a vision. Whether you are an experienced Nonprofit Manager or someone looking to move into this role, this course may be useful as you explore strategies for leading a successful nonprofit organization.
See salaries and explore the career path for Nonprofit Manager
Philanthropy Advisor
Philanthropy Advisors help individuals and families make informed decisions about their charitable giving. They often work with clients to identify their philanthropic goals and develop strategies for achieving those goals. This course will help you develop the skills needed to be an effective Philanthropy Advisor, including how to read and understand grant criteria, assemble a grant proposal, and build a team and a vision. Whether you are an experienced Philanthropy Advisor or someone looking to move into this role, this course may be useful as you explore strategies for helping clients achieve their philanthropic goals.
See salaries and explore the career path for Philanthropy Advisor
Social Worker
Social Workers help individuals and families address social and economic challenges. They often work with clients to develop strategies for improving their lives. This course may be useful for Social Workers who are interested in developing their skills in grant writing and crowdfunding. While this course does not provide a foundation in social work practice, it can help Social Workers learn how to secure funding for their programs and services.
See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker
Community Organizer
Community Organizers work with communities to identify and address social and economic challenges. They often work with residents to develop strategies for improving their社区. This course may be useful for Community Organizers who are interested in developing their skills in grant writing and crowdfunding. While this course does not provide a foundation in community organizing practice, it can help Community Organizers learn how to secure funding for their programs and services.
See salaries and explore the career path for Community Organizer
Educator
Educators teach students at all levels, from preschool through college. They often work with students to develop their knowledge and skills. This course may be useful for Educators who are interested in developing their skills in grant writing and crowdfunding. While this course does not provide a foundation in education theory and practice, it can help Educators learn how to secure funding for their programs and initiatives.
See salaries and explore the career path for Educator

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Grant Writing and Crowdfunding for Public Libraries.
Cover image
Launching Large-Scale Library Initiatives
Save
Specifically tailored for libraries, this book offers comprehensive strategies and case studies for successful crowdfunding campaigns.
Launching Large-Scale Library Initiatives:...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Nonprofit Management All-in-One For Dummies
Save
Simplifies the grant writing process, providing hands-on guidance and practical tips for crafting compelling proposals.
Nonprofit Management All-in-One For Dummies (For...
Paperback
$$
Nonprofit Management All-in-One For Dummies
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Strategic Green Infrastructure Planning
Save
A practical guide specifically designed for libraries, covering all aspects of grant writing from proposal development to submission.
Strategic Green Infrastructure Planning: A Multi...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
The Art of Grant Writing
Save
A classic in the field, this book offers a comprehensive guide to grant writing, covering all aspects from planning to submission.
The Art of Grant Writing: Communicating Your Vision...
Paperback
$$$$
Cover image
Writing with Pleasure
Save
Provides a comprehensive guide to proposal writing, covering all aspects from planning to submission.
Writing with Pleasure (Skills for Scholars, 11)
Hardcover
$$
Writing with Pleasure (Skills for Scholars Book 11)
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Crowdsourceress
Save
Offers a comprehensive guide to crowdfunding, covering platform selection, campaign strategy, and marketing techniques.
The Crowdsourceress: Get Smart, Get Funded, and...
Paperback
$
The Crowdsourceress: Get Smart, Get Funded, and...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
MatchUp
Save
A useful reference for grant writers, covering the entire grant writing process from research to proposal submission.
MatchUp
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Grant Writing For Dummies
Save
This introductory book provides a basic understanding of grant writing principles and processes.
Grant Writing For Dummies
Paperback
Check
Grant Writing For Dummies
Kindle Edition
Check

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:
Facebook
LinkedIn
Reddit
X
Link
Email

Similar courses

Here are nine courses similar to Grant Writing and Crowdfunding for Public Libraries.
Crafting Business Presentations, Proposals, Crisis Comms
Most relevant
Fundraising and Development Foundations
Most relevant
Media Relations and Crisis Management
Most relevant
Understanding Corporate Communications
Most relevant
Introduction to Public Relations
Most relevant
Academic Skills for University Success: Capstone
Most relevant
Getting Your Film off the Ground
Most relevant
Lending, Crowdfunding, and Modern Investing
Most relevant
Integrated and Strategic Communication Campaigns
Most relevant

edX Buyer Protection & Guarantee

Verified partner policies & purchase protections

World-Class University Partner
Free Trial & Audit

Free Audit Track Available

Free audit track available for most courses, giving open access to video lectures, course readings, and assignments at no charge.

Return & Refund Policy

14-Day Full Refund Window

14-day full refund available up to 14 days after course start or 14 days after payment (whichever comes second, up to 6 months max), provided verified certificate has not yet been earned.

Buyer Protections

Verified Academic & Industry Partner

University-backed credentials authored by elite institutions like Harvard, MIT, and Oxford, with tamper-proof certificate verification.

Key Purchase Protections
Free audit track for open learning access
14-day money-back guarantee on verified certificates
Prestigious university credentials (Harvard, MIT)
Automatic unenrollment refund process via dashboard
OpenCourser Verified Partner Policy details last reviewed: 2026-10-22
Course image
Effort
2 to 3 hours per week for 4 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
The University of Michigan
Instructor
Kristin Fontichiaro
Language
English
Transcript
English
This course belongs to a collection called Public Library Management. It's comprised of eight courses:
  1. Grant Writing and Crowdfunding for Public Libraries (viewing)
  2. Public Library Marketing and Public Relations
  3. Identifying Community Needs for Public Library Management
  4. Managing a Diverse and Inclusive Workplace for Public Libraries
  5. Strategic Planning for Public Libraries
  6. Personnel Management for Public Libraries
  7. Infrastructure Management for Public Libraries
  8. Budgeting and Finance for Public Libraries
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops skills for fundraising in public libraries
Teaches how to articulate a vision for grant applications
Taught by instructors Kristin Fontichiaro
Covers materials necessary for grant writing
Taught strategies for crafting successful grant proposals
Examines case studies on crowdfunding
Share this
Share to help others discover this course.
Facebook LinkedIn X Reddit Link Email
Begin learning today
Enroll now to gain full access to Grant Writing and Crowdfunding for Public Libraries.
Enroll now
Save for later
Add this course to your list. Find it anytime.
Save
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser