Proposing Programs for the Boston Public Library
General Program Proposal
The Boston Public Library (BPL) is dedicated to offering culturally diverse and inclusive programs that are free to the public and engaging, educational, and informative for all ages. Our librarian staff are committed to accomplishing this by way of offering Author Talks (local and award-winning writers and scholars); lectures that explore the humanities and special topics; entertainment (film screening, concerts, theatrical, and dance), and wellness (i.e., arts & crafts, cooking, yoga, dance classes, music reading workshops).
To curate programs that reflect the communities and individuals that we serve, the BPL welcomes and accepts program ideas. Programs are planned 90 days in advance. Proposals are reviewed on a rolling basis.
To conduct programming at BPL, we have revamped our processes. With this new process, we are seeking general program proposals from the public to help plan for our programming throughout the year. There will be two deadlines to submit general program proposals.
The timeframe and deadline for our Summer/Fall 2026 programs is: March 2 to April 10
By submitting by this date, if selected, you plan to have a program start date from the period of July to December.
If your idea is selected, library staff will contact you.
NOTE: Library staff have the discretion to modify proposed dates and times. If you have questions about programming opportunities for a specific branch, please call them directly.
Fellowes Athenaeum Trust Fund Program Proposal
The Fellowes Athenaeum Trust Fund Advisory Committee is pleased to issue the 2027FY Request for Proposals (RFP). The application portal is open from Monday, May 4, 2026, to Friday, July 10, 2026. We are asking applicants to submit a grant proposal for in-branch learning by 11:59 pm on Friday, July 10, 2026.
This RFP supports the mission of the Fellowes Athenaeum Trust Fund (FATF) to provide a variety of literary and instructive programming for the Greater Roxbury community at the Shaw-Roxbury Branch. We seek ideas for activities that will engage people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.
If you intend to submit a proposal, applicants are highly encouraged to attend one of the in-person Information Sessions. We will discuss the committee's application review and selection process and what's required for grantees. Sessions will be held at the Shaw-Roxbury branch.
Monday, May 18, 6:00 - 7:30 pm
Saturday, May 30, 10:00 - 11:30 am
Monday, June 8, 6:00 - 7:30 pm
Saturday, June 13, 10:00 - 11:30 am
If you have questions, contact the Boston Public Library’s Adult Programs Department, by email at programs@bpl.org.
Nutrition Lab
Boston Public Library offer programs and lessons about healthy eating and wellness at our Nutrition Lab at the Roxbury Branch. If you would like to learn more about programming and to submit an idea, please visit the Nutrition Lab page.
Propose a Program at the Kirstein Business Library & Innovation Center
Are you a business owner, creative, educator, or industry expert with knowledge to share? Kirstein Business Library & Innovation Center (KBLIC) invites speakers and facilitators to propose free, educational programs that support entrepreneurs, job seekers, and lifelong learners.
