The Civic Makers Lab is a grant and peer-learning program that equips librarians to serve as civic learning facilitators, and empowers young adults ages 18-24 to be active contributors to their communities. Through experiential civic learning (the process of acquiring civic knowledge and skills through action), libraries will build new pathways for young adults into civic life, rooted in curiosity, connection, and community problem-solving, rather than partisanship.

Why This Matters

Young people see libraries as safe, inclusive spaces where questions are welcome, ideas can be explored, and community life is visible. At a moment when civic education is fragmented or politicized, libraries can play a defining role in strengthening civic health through hands-on, real-world learning.

Program Objectives

• Train librarians in experiential civic learning
• Expand civic learning opportunities for young adults
• Strengthen local civic ecosystems through partnerships
• Build a national network of civic-minded libraries
• Generate new, replicable models of civic engagement

Young adult program participants will gain civic skills, knowledge, and dispositions; hands-on leadership experience; opportunities for community contribution; and a stronger sense of belonging and agency.