The Irene Ingle Public Library will use a two-year $150,000 federal grant to hire a part-time staffer and expand its programs for the community.

The award comes from the Institute of Museum and Library Services’ (IMLS) Native American Library Services Enhancement Grant program and is intended to strengthen the library’s role as an educational and cultural anchor for Wrangell.

The library worked with the Wrangell Cooperative Association on the grant.

The borough assembly voted Oct. 21 to accept the funds and authorize a new library programming coordinator position. The part-time role, about 21 hours a week with benefits, will focus on planning, promoting and delivering consistent programs for all ages.

Duties will include helping develop new activities, managing outreach and recruiting volunteers to support events.

“If you look at modern libraries throughout the country, you’ll see that a program librarian is normal and essential,” Library Director Sarah Scambler said. “That position will help ensure that things don’t fall through the cracks and the programs are implemented as planned.”

Popular staples such as Toddler Story Time, Wrangell Kids Club, Winter Reading Program for Grownups, Summer Reading Program and annual Bookmark Contest will continue. The grant will help the library broaden its offerings and reach more residents.

New efforts planned with the funding include after-school tutoring at the high school in partnership with the school district; a Senior Coffee Hour with help on technology and other needs; a year-round youth book club; a youth esports club; more weekend family events; and appearances by local authors, artists and experts, along with guest presenters from outside Wrangell.

The library also intends to reshape lower-use activities, such as Homework Hangout and Bring Your Own Craft Nights, to better match community interests and times of availability.

The new coordinator is expected to help evaluate programs, track attendance and gather feedback so offerings stay vibrant, inclusive and responsive.

The partnership with the WCA will guide cultural programming and help ensure events reflect local values and traditions. IMLS grants are designed to support tribal and Native-serving libraries in building capacity, expanding access and preserving culture.

Scambler said the position and new initiatives will strengthen the library’s role as a community hub.

“The most important thing for libraries and the community is consistency,” she said. “I’ll do anything in my power to make sure that isn’t interrupted. I think maintaining consistency helps increase usage. That’s a mission for all libraries.”