Application Submitted 4.9.26.pdf
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1 Courtney Gomez From: Rob Roach Sent: Thursday, April 9, 2026 3:15 PM To: Courtney Gomez Subject: FW: Results for LSTA 2026 General Grant Application. Rob Roach Grant Program and Procurement Manager City of Buckeye 530 E. Monroe Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85326 (623) 349-6165 rroach@buckeyeaz.gov www.Buckeyeaz.gov Chance favors the prepared From: donotreply@libwizard.com <donotreply@libwizard.com> Sent: Thursday, April 9, 2026 3:13 PM To: Rob Roach <rroach@buckeyeaz.gov> Subject: Results for LSTA 2026 General Grant Application. [NOTICE: This message originated outside of the City of Buckeye -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe.] Form Name: LSTA 2026 General Grant Application Submitted: Apr 09, 2026 03:13 PM Submission ID: 23688201 Library Name: Buckeye Public Library Street Address: 21699 W. Yuma Rd., #116 City: Buckeye You don't often get email from donotreply@libwizard.com. Learn why this is important 2 State: AZ ZIP Code: 85326 Website Address: https://www.buckeyeaz.gov/community/residents/library Unique Entity Identifier: WYJHKKNHLA38 First Name: Elizabeth Last Name: Garcia Email: egarcia@buckeyeaz.gov Phone: (623)349-6321 For your library, is this project New or Continuing?: New For the following question, refer to p. 6 of the grant guidelines. For more information on our state’s LSTA goals, refer to the Arizona LSTA Five-Year Plan (2023-2027).Choose One Category: Goal 2: Informal Education Project Title: Buckeye Public Library Makerspace Primary Project Intent: Lifelong Learning: Improve users' general knowledge and skills Total Grant Funding Requested (round to the nearest whole number): 38240 Briefly summarize the project by completing the following:: The goal of this project is to provide a space and the tools to support lifelong learning for community members who are 13 years of age and older. The Buckeye Public Library seeks to establish a makerspace to support this goal. Makerspaces are designed as a collaborative workspace for people of all ages to explore, learn, create, and share ideas by using a variety of resources and tools. Funds will be used to purchase makerspace equipment and materials, including a three-dimensional (3D) printer, sewing and embroidery machine, vinyl printer, and other tools. These tools will support hands-on learning, technology access, and skill development programs at the Buckeye Public Library. Community members 3 will benefit from this makerspace because it will support lifelong learning and introduce new and innovative technology and skill-building opportunities. What audiences are you targeting with this project and why?: This project targets community members aged 13 and older to expand access to makerspace resources and innovative technology for teens and adults alike. Makerspaces provide hands-on learning opportunities that introduce participants to advanced technology, Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM)-based tools, and creative skill development. The Buckeye Public Library will use an open lab model and STEAM programming to ensure that participants can explore, learn, and build at their own pace while gaining practical experience. This approach supports lifelong learning, workforce readiness, and equitable access to emerging technologies for a broad community audience. According to Walden University, makerspaces promote collaboration, creativity, resilience, and communication skills while providing educational equity to the community (The Benefits of a Makerspace Learning Environment | Walden University). Additionally, learning styles vary from person to person, and the makerspace supports differentiated and inclusive learning by providing hands-on experiences rather than learning solely from a textbook. Lastly, makerspaces aid students' preparation for careers focused on problem-solving, creativity, adaptability, and technological literacy. These skills are in high demand for creative and STEAM industries. (The Power of Makerspaces: Research-Backed Benefits for 21st-Century Learning). What community needs or opportunity does your project address?: This project addresses the community’s need for greater access to hands-on STEAM learning, advanced technology, and skill-building opportunities for teens and adults ages 13 and older. Many community members do not have access to makerspace tools or emerging technologies, such as 3D printers, embroidery and sewing machines, vinyl printers, etc., limiting opportunities for creative exploration, workforce development, and lifelong learning. The Buckeye Public Library will provide an open lab-style makerspace with STEAM-based programming. An article by learning.com mentions that greater emphasis on digital learning and literacy is in society’s future. Additionally, the emphasis is on not only technical skills, but critical thinking, problem solving, and creativity. This project creates an opportunity for residents to build new skills, explore innovative technology, and engage in meaningful, hands-on educational experiences. By providing community access to these makerspace tools and technologies, learners have the opportunity to explore potential educational and/or workforce interests, such as woodworking, textiles, STEAM curriculum, 3D printing, etc. This project also supports digital equity, workforce readiness, and the Buckeye Public Library’s role as a community hub for learning and innovation. How do you know this is a need?: Buckeye is a rural area with population clusters spread over 640 square miles, covered by greater than 90% agricultural/open space, 2% industrial/commercial use, and 4% residential. The World Population Review estimates a population of over 124,000 located 25 miles west of Phoenix. More than 27% of Buckeye’s residents are under the age of 18. The community includes 37,486 households. Buckeye’s main ethnic breakdown is 48% Latino, 42% White, 6.4% Black, and 3.6% two or more races. The average income is $54,322, the median age is 36 years, and 8% of households are below the poverty level (Buckeye, Arizona Population 2026). Buckeye has thousands of miles of dirt, gravel, and hiking trails within Buckeye. Large portions of Buckeye have been federally identified as historically disadvantaged in terms of transportation, health, equity, environmental indicators, Risk Management Plan (RMP) facility proximity, wastewater discharge, flood risk, education, income, socioeconomic indicators, unemployment, and a high level of vulnerability to negative effects caused by external stresses on 4 human health. The requested makerspace project and the specific items related thereto are part of the Buckeye Library Master Plan (https://www.buckeyeaz.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/12943/638270113870330000). During the crafting of the Buckeye library Master Plan Buckeye engaged the public for feedback. Also, a technology evaluation survey was sent out to the public, asking what technologies they would like to see in the library. As indicated by the aforementioned demographics, which indicate rapid population growth with a large youth and working-age population, there is a strong need for educational and skill-building opportunities for teens and young adults. These community members would benefit from access to STEAM and technology resources. Overall, Buckeye is a fast-growing and diverse community where access to advanced technology and hands-on learning opportunities are currently limited, creating a need for library-based makerspace services that support lifelong learning and workforce readiness. By providing a makerspace with STEAM programming and open lab access for ages 13 and older, the Buckeye Public Library will help meet the community’s needs for technology access, skill development, and innovative learning opportunities that align with Buckeye’s growing and evolving population. How does this project relate to your library’s mission or other plans (such as a technology plan)?: Buckeye currently provides the following services: free WiFi, public access computers, and thousands of books and DVDs covering a myriad of topics. Access can be obtained at the library and remotely from any computer, tablet, or smartphone with an internet connection. The Buckeye Public Library’s mission includes expanding digital literacy, fostering innovation, and providing equitable access to educational resources. This makerspace project directly supports the Buckeye Public Library’s mission and technology plan by inspiring, engaging, and connecting patrons with current and emerging technologies while providing equitable access to tools that support lifelong learning, workforce development, and education. The requested makerspace project and the specific items related thereto are part of the Buckeye Library Master Plan. The makerspace aligns with the Buckeye Public Library’s technology goals by modeling changing technology, offering hands-on STEAM learning opportunities, and giving teens and adults ages 13 and older access to innovative tools such as 3D printing and other emerging technologies that are often too expensive or unavailable in the community. This project also supports the Buckeye Public Library’s commitment to identifying new technologies that provide enriching opportunities for patrons to strengthen digital literacy, creativity, and career readiness. By offering open lab access with STEAM programming, the makerspace advances the Buckeye Public Library’s role as a community hub for technology, innovation, and lifelong learning while meeting the needs of Buckeye’s growing and diverse population. Buckeye Public Library staff will monitor all makerspace tools and technologies to ensure proper usage and care. What specific change(s) do you intend to achieve with this project?: The Buckeye Public Library intends to increase access to makerspace technology and STEAM learning opportunities for community members ages 13 and older. The anticipated result is improved digital literacy, technical skills, and confidence in using emerging technologies through hands-on makerspace experiences and open lab programming. This project will also support lifelong learning and workforce readiness in Buckeye. Through this project, the Buckeye Public Library intends to promote educational equity while helping individuals build resilience, creativity, communication, and collaboration skills. Buckeye Public Library staff will collect qualitative direct feedback from participants about their experiences and perceived skill improvements. Participation numbers and engagement levels (number of times used, time spent using the makerspace, repeat users) will also be measured and serve as indicators. Briefly explain why you have selected this outcome, tying it to the Needs Assessment provided.: 5 The makerspace tools and technologies outcome was selected because the Needs Assessment shows a clear demand for increased access to makerspace technology, STEAM learning, and hands-on skill- building opportunities for community members ages 13 and older in Buckeye. With a rapidly growing population, a large youth and working-age demographic, and limited access to advanced technology, the community would benefit from opportunities that build digital literacy, technical skills, and workforce readiness. Buckeye intends to provide the resources to accommodate these present and future needs. The outcome directly addresses these needs by focusing on expanding access to emerging technologies, supporting lifelong learning, and providing meaningful hands-on experiences through an open lab makerspace model and STEAM programming. This ensures that the project creates measurable change by improving access, skills, and confidence in using technology for Buckeye’s growing and diverse community. What will you do, and how will you do it? Give specific information about the types of activities, number of programs, or resources you will make available.: The project will create a dedicated makerspace room at Buckeye’s Coyote Branch Library equipped with a 3D printer, carbon dioxide (CO2) laser cutter, vinyl cutter, and sewing and embroidery machine to provide hands-on technology access for community members ages 13 and older. The makerspace will offer regular open lab hours where patrons can independently use equipment, along with one structured hands-on STEAM program each month to teach participants how to safely and effectively use the makerspace tools. The STEAM program will be conducted by Buckeye Public Library staff. Additional resources will include how-to videos, instructional guides, and staff support to ensure users can learn and build skills at their own pace. This combination of open lab access, availability of staff for help, monthly programming, and instructional resources will create consistent opportunities for hands-on learning, creativity, and technology skill development in the Buckeye community. Based on the popularity of this program, the Buckeye Public Library may expand this program in the future to allow for greater availability and community opportunities. Additionally, the Buckeye Public Library may potentially partner with local schools and job training programs for targeted outreach. What steps has your library taken to prepare for this project?: The Buckeye Public Library has taken several steps to prepare for this project by researching makerspaces in West and East Valley Phoenix libraries to better understand successful models and best practices. Buckeye Public Library staff created a list of makerspace equipment and resources currently used in other libraries and assessed which items would best benefit the Buckeye community’s needs. Buckeye Public Library staff also assessed the available space at the Coyote Branch Library to ensure that these most beneficial resources could be appropriately housed without crowding. Additional research was conducted to identify the most appropriate and sustainable makerspace equipment for Buckeye, ensuring the selected tools align with community demand, space capacity, and the library’s technology goals. The Buckeye Public Library’s staff has the capacity to implement and manage the proposed program. Why did you choose this approach for your project? Did you consider any alternative approaches?: The Buckeye Public Library chose the makerspace approach because creating a dedicated makerspace with both open lab access and structured STEAM programming provides a balance of independent exploration and guided learning, allowing teens and adults to build skills at their own pace. This approach also allows individuals to receive instruction on how to safely and effectively use advanced technology. This model aligns with the Buckeye Public Library’s mission to provide equitable access to innovative tools, support lifelong learning, and foster workforce readiness. Alternative approaches, such as offering only scheduled programs without open lab access or using mobile kits instead of a 6 permanent makerspace, were considered. However, these options would limit consistent access to technology, reduce opportunities for self-directed learning, and make it more difficult to develop ongoing skills and confidence in using emerging technologies, which are central goals for this project. Additionally, the makerspace tools and technologies selected are sustainable compared to alternative approaches, which typically require higher sustainment and personnel costs. List at least one product or activity that will help you meet the outcome. All products and activities that are a part of your project should be tied to an outcome.: One key activity that will help meet the outcome is the monthly hands-on STEAM program, where participants learn to use makerspace equipment such as the 3D printer, CO2 laser cutter, vinyl cutter, and sewing and embroidery machine. This structured program directly supports the outcome by teaching technical skills, building confidence with emerging technologies, and reinforcing STEAM concepts through guided, practical experience. Additionally, open lab hours and instructional resources like how- to videos and guides are products of the project that allow participants to practice independently, further developing digital literacy, creativity, and lifelong learning skills in alignment with the outcome. Describe what tool(s) or method(s) you will use to evaluate each product or activity listed. Examples include pre- and post-assessments, surveys, focus groups, interviews, and observations.: Participants will be requested to complete surveys after using the open lab hours to provide feedback on their experience with the makerspace equipment, including ease of use and the helpfulness of instructional videos and guides. Surveys will also be administered after the monthly hands-on STEAM program to evaluate participants’ understanding of the equipment, confidence in using the tools, and satisfaction with the structured instruction. In addition, Buckeye Public Library staff will monitor participation numbers while conducting observations and check-ins during both open lab and program sessions to assess participant engagement, skill development, and how effectively the equipment and resources are being used. These evaluation tools will help measure skill development, engagement, and the effectiveness of both independent and guided makerspace activities in meeting the project’s outcomes. Based on the popularity and feedback from patrons who have participated in this program, the Buckeye Public Library may expand and budget for this program in the future to allow for greater availability, sustainability, and community opportunities. Provide a list of the names of project personnel, the organization they represent and their title, and a description of their duties for this project. If the project requires a consultant, provide a brief resume for any consultant for whom you are requesting LSTA funds and upload below.: Sean Doyle, Buckeye Public Library, Library Systems and Technology Administrator. Sean will be responsible for overall program oversight, staff training, and data collection. City of Buckeye Library staff and volunteers will assist with the makerspace setup, patron guidance, and data collection. Rob Roach, City of Buckeye, Grant Program Manager. Courtney Gomez, Grant Program Administrator. Rob and Courtney will be responsible for all grant compliance, performance, and financial reporting, as required. Consultants are not required. Identify the project director and explain why he or she is appropriate for this project.: Elizabeth Garcia will serve as the Project Director. Elizabeth is the Library Manager, and she has direct oversight of library operations, staff coordination, and strategic priorities. Her leadership role positions her to guide implementation, ensure alignment with organizational goals, and support successful project outcomes. Elizabeth has managed previous technology implementation projects at the Buckeye Public Library, coordinated with stakeholders, and developed engaging programs for community members. Her 7 expertise in emerging technology and strong leadership skills will ensure the successful implementation and sustainability of the makerspace program. If specific skills or expertise are necessary for project personnel, briefly list their qualifications.: While there are no specific skills or expertise necessary for project personnel, all Buckeye Public Library staff are equipped to ensure the success of the proposed project. Both Elizabeth Garcia and Sean Doyle have expertise in emerging technology and have managed previous technology implementation projects at the Buckeye Public Library, coordinated with stakeholders, and developed engaging programs for community members. If you are partnering with other organizations for this project, describe each partner’s role. Provide a letter of support from each partnering organization and upload below.: Not applicable at this time. Provide a timeline that includes planning, implementation, and evaluation, and indicates when you plan to spend the grant funds. Remember, you cannot request grant funds before May 22, 2026, and you must spend them by September 3, 2027.: May–July 2026 (Planning Phase) Project staff will finalize the makerspace implementation plan, confirm equipment specifications, prepare the makerspace room at Buckeye’s Coyote Branch Library, and develop initial program outlines and safety procedures. No grant funds will be spent prior to May 22, 2026. Initial purchases of approved equipment will begin after May 22, 2026. August–December 2026 (Implementation Phase – Equipment Purchase & Setup) Grant funds will be used to purchase makerspace equipment, including the 3D printer, CO₂ laser cutter, vinyl cutter, and sewing and embroidery machine. Staff will complete equipment installation, develop instructional materials, and receive training on safe and effective operation. Marketing and outreach efforts will begin to introduce the makerspace to the community. January–August 2027 (Program Delivery Phase) The makerspace will operate with regular open lab hours for independent use by community members ages 13 and older. The library will offer one structured hands-on STEM program per month focused on learning makerspace equipment and building technical skills. Additional instructional guides and support resources will be made available. Remaining grant funds will be used for program supplies and materials during this period. January–September 2027 (Evaluation Phase) Library staff will collect participant surveys, review attendance data, and conduct observational assessments to evaluate engagement, skill development, and confidence using makerspace technologies. Project outcomes will be measured against stated goals, and final reporting will be completed. All grant funds will be fully expended by September 3, 2027. If successful, will you continue this project once the grant period has ended? If so, how will you sustain it?: Yes. If successful, the Buckeye Public Library intends to continue the makerspace after the grant period has ended by using the library’s operational budget allocations, grant funding, and potential sponsorships from local businesses. Ongoing support will include routine supply replacement, equipment maintenance, and continued staff-led programming and open lab hours. Integrating the makerspace into regular library services ensures the project remains sustainable and continues providing technology access, skill-building opportunities, and lifelong learning experiences for the community beyond the grant period. Provide a detailed explanation and justification of the proposed LSTA expenditures. This should include quotes, estimates, mileage, and other methods of calculating budget items.: The proposed LSTA expenditures are based on vendor quotes and price estimates compiled for the 8 Buckeye Public Library Makerspace project. Major equipment costs include two Bambu Lab H2C Standard 3D printers ($6,000 total), one xTool P2 Versatile Bundle 55W CO₂ laser cutter ($6,000), one xTool SafetyPro AP2 Max Air Purifier ($2,700), one Silhouette Cameo Pro MK-II Ultimate Workspace ($1,500), one Brother NQ3550W Sewing & Embroidery Machine ($3,400), two Global Industrial 5-Drawer Rolling Tool Cabinets ($1,400), three Borroughs Work Benches ($3,500), one Kobalt 228-Piece Household Tool Set ($160), one 3D printer filament rack ($250 estimated), and four computers ($8,000 estimated). Supply and material costs are also based on vendor pricing and include starter materials for the laser cutter, multiple filament bundles for 3D printing, nozzle cleaning tools, cleaning supplies, pliers, a heat gun, vinyl in assorted colors, transfer tape, cutting blades, cutting mats, embroidery thread, bobbins, stabilizers, embroidery needles, and sewing scissors. These supply costs were calculated using estimated quantities needed to support open lab use and monthly programming during the grant period. A warranty for the xTool P2 ($350) is also included as a service cost to help protect the investment and reduce future repair risk. No mileage costs are included in this project budget. In addition, personnel support will be provided as in-kind match rather than requested grant funds. Overall, the budget reflects direct quotes where available, reasonable market estimates where exact models are still being finalized, and quantities calculated to ensure the makerspace has the equipment, furniture, technology, and consumable materials necessary to launch and sustain public service. The makerspace will support open lab access and monthly hands-on STEM programming for ages 13 and older, providing access to 3D printing, laser cutting, vinyl cutting, and sewing/embroidery technology. Salaries/Wages/BenefitsIncludes all salaries, wages, and fringe benefits paid to temporary project staff directly contributing to the project.: Personnel costs for this project are part of the Buckeye Public Library’s in-kind match and include staff time dedicated to planning, implementation, training, and ongoing makerspace support. The project will allocate approximately 1,040 hours from one Library Systems & Technology Administrator at $42.92 per hour and two Library Assistant Seniors at $25.00 per hour each ($42.92 x 520 = $22,318.40, $25.00 x 520 = $13,000 x 2 = $26,000. Total: $22,318.40 + $26,000 = $48,318.40). These staff members will support equipment setup, development of instructional materials, delivery of monthly hands-on STEM programs, supervision of open lab hours, and evaluation activities. Personnel involvement ensures the makerspace is implemented effectively and remains accessible, safe, and sustainable for community use throughout the grant period. Salaries (LSTA): 0 Salaries (Match): 48318.4 Consultant FeesIncludes all expenses related to acquiring the services of a consultant for a specific activity within the project. Costs may include fees, travel, accommodation, and support services hired directly by the consultant. : Not applicable. Consultant Fees (LSTA): 0 Consultant Fees (Match): 0 9 TravelIncludes travel costs related to the project activities and incurred by the staff working on the project. Costs can include airfare, ground transportation, accommodation, meals, etc. : Not applicable. Travel (LSTA): 0 Travel (Match): 0 Supplies/MaterialsIncludes costs for supplies and materials with a per unit cost less than $10,000.00.: Supply costs for this project include materials and supporting tools needed to operate the makerspace and provide hands-on programming. These items include: • Bambu Lab H2C Standard • xTool P2 Versatile Bundle (55W CO2 Laser Cutter) • xTool P2 Starter Pack, xTool P2 Warranty • xTool SafetyPro AP2 Max Air Purifier • Silhouette Cameo Pro MK-II Ultimate Workspace • Brother NQ3550W Sewing & Embroidery Machine • Global Industrial 5-Drawer Rolling Tool Cabinet • Borroughs Work Bench • Kobalt 228 Piece Household Tool Set • 3D Printer Filament Rack • Computers • Filament Bundle - Black & White • Filament Bundle - Brown, Red, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange, Purple, Pink, Beige, Oak, • Filament Bundle - Quadruple Color Silk • Silk Filament Bundle • 3D Printer Nozzle Cleaning Kit • Spray bottle • Microfiber Cleaning Cloth • Needle nose pliers • Heat gun • Vinyl (black and white) • Transfer tape • Cutting blades • Cutting mats • Embroidery thread • Bobbins • Cut away stabilizer • Tear away stabilizer • Embroidery needles • Big and small sewing scissors These supplies and materials are all below the $10,000 per-unit threshold and are necessary to support ongoing makerspace use, equipment operation, project activities, and participant learning. Supplies/Materials (LSTA): 37890 Supplies/Materials (Match): 0 EquipmentIncludes tangible personal property (including information technology systems) having a useful life of more than one year and a per‐unit acquisition cost which equals or exceeds $10,000.00.: Not applicable Equipment (LSTA): 0 Equipment (Match): 0 ServicesIncludes project activities undertaken by a third‐party contractor or vendor. Includes printing, subscriptions, maintenance, etc.: The Buckeye Public Library is requesting funding to support the xTool P2 Warranty. 10 Services (LSTA): 350 Services (Match): 0 Indirect CostsIncludes incurred costs that cannot be readily isolated or identified with just one project or activity. These types of costs are often referred to as "overhead costs." Typical examples are charges for utilities, general insurance, use of office space and equipment that you own, local telephone service, and the salaries of the management and administrative personnel of the organization. : Not applicable. Indirect Costs (LSTA): 0 Indirect Costs (Match): 0 Is the activity directed at the library workforce (including volunteers and trustees)?: No Are you targeting the general population or specific group?: General Population Which geographical audience is it intended for? Check all that apply.: Urban, Suburban, Rural Select one or more of the following target age groups.: 13-17 years, 18-25 years, 26-49 years, 50-59 years, 60-69 years, 70+ years If the project is directed at those in one or more of the following economic situations, select one or more.: Not Applicable If the activity is directed at ethnic or minority populations, select one or more.: Not Applicable Is the project directed at families?: Yes Is the project directed at intergenerational groups (does not include families)?: Yes Is the project directed at immigrants/refugees?: No Is the project directed at those with disabilities?: 11 Yes Is the project directed at those with limited functional literacy or informational skills?: Yes The library’s most recent reorganization occurred:: Within the past 10 years Number of years the Project Manager has spent managing a grant:: More than 5 years Number of years the Project Manager has been employed in the applying library's system:: 6 or more years Does your accounting system identify and track expenditure and receipt of program funds separately for each grant award?: Yes First Name: Rob Last Name: Roach Title: Grant Program Manager