The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation is investing $3 million in rural communities  across southeast Michigan and western New York by launching the Rural Library Grants Program.

The three-year initiative is designed to strengthen rural public libraries and library systems as community hubs.

Each region will have $500,000 distributed each year. The inaugural year of funding is going to more than 30 libraries across both regions.

The grants help rural libraries improve the spaces and services residents use every day, including outdoor learning and gathering areas, youth and teen programming, career exploration and more.

“In many rural communities, libraries have built upon their role as hubs for learning, growing into trusted and dynamic spaces where residents can connect with resources, ideas and one another,” said Maura Dewan, vice president of Programs and Corporate Affairs, Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation. “We are proud to support library-led projects that reflect the aspirations and opportunities of the local communities they serve and the people they know best.”

Grantees in each region were selected through a competitive process administered by local partner organizations with knowledge of rural libraries and community needs.

Grant Recipients in Oakland County

Addison Township public library – $86,950 to create an outdoor learning and gathering space featuring sensory gardens, flexible outdoor seating with an awning and projector, and accessible spaces for reading, socializing and community programs.
Brandon Township public library – $62,000 to support the installation of a 300-foot StoryWalk trail along the south side of the library property.
Lyon Township Public Library – $25,300 to outfit a new Makerspace by purchasing makerspace equipment as well as cabinetry and containers to secure equipment and materials.
Orion Township Public Library – $16,650 to update an existing trail and install a StoryWalk by Fall 2026 on its wooded property to promote literacy and outdoor activity.

The two areas reflect the devotion Wilson had to southeast Michigan, where he was raised, and greater Buffalo, N.Y., home of the Buffalo Bills NFL team he founded and owned from 1959 until his death in 2014.