ScanPro® Film to Future Grant | Your Story. Your Collection. Your Future.
Every library has a collection worth preserving and a story worth sharing.
This year, we're doing things a little differently.
Rather than a traditional giveaway, we're introducing the ScanPro Film to Future Grant—a new opportunity designed to help libraries improve access to microfilm collections, preserve local history, and support research through modern digitization technology.
Whether your collection includes newspapers, genealogy resources, local history archives, yearbooks, or special collections, we want to hear your story.
Introduced at ALA Annual 2026, this grant is now open to qualifying libraries through September 30, 2026.
Applications are open through September 30, 2026. Recipient to be announced in October 2026.
Why This Grant Matters
Microfilm remains one of the most trusted preservation formats available, but access can be limited by aging equipment, staffing constraints, and growing expectations for digital access.
Libraries today are looking for ways to:
- Preserve historical records
- Improve access to newspaper archives
- Support genealogy and local history research
- Create searchable digital files
- Expand access to valuable collections
The ScanPro Film to Future Grant was created to help libraries take the next step.
Who Should Apply?
Public Libraries
Improve access to local newspapers, community records, and historical collections.
Academic Libraries
Support faculty, student, and genealogical research with searchable digital resources.
Special Collections and Archives
Preserve unique materials while expanding access for researchers, students, and the community.
What the Recipient Receives
One library will receive:
- A ScanPro Scanner
- Installation and training
- Ongoing support
Tell Us Your Story
What's in your collection?
Tell us about the newspapers, archives, records, or special collections you preserve.
What challenges are you facing?
Describe your current access, preservation, or digitization challenges.
How would a ScanPro make an impact?
Tell us how improved access would benefit your staff, patrons, researchers, or community.
How Applications Will Be Evaluated
Applications will be reviewed by the e-ImageData team based on:
- Demonstrated need
- Potential impact on patrons and researchers
- Preservation and access goals
- Collection significance
- Overall vision for the project
We are looking for libraries that can clearly articulate how improved access to microfilm collections would benefit their staff, patrons, and community.
Apply for the ScanPro Film to Future Grant
Why Libraries Choose ScanPro
For decades, libraries, universities, archives, and government organizations have trusted ScanPro technology to access and preserve microfilm collections.
ScanPro helps organizations:
- Improve access to microfilm collections
- Create high-quality digital images
- Support genealogy and historical research
- Preserve valuable records for future generations
- Simplify research and retrieval workflows
From film to future, ScanPro helps libraries connect preservation with accessibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply?
Public libraries, academic libraries, and library-affiliated archives and special collections are encouraged to apply.
Do I need to attend ALA to apply?
No. The grant is being introduced at ALA Annual 2026, but qualifying libraries may apply online through September 30, 2026.
How will the recipient be selected?
Applications will be reviewed based on need, potential impact, and how the technology will support access and preservation goals.
Is there a cost to apply?
No. There is no cost to apply.