Policy research, data collection, analysis and modeling, evaluation, and dissemination

The Director shall regularly support and conduct, as appropriate, policy research, data collection, analysis and modeling, evaluation, and dissemination of information to extend and improve the Nation’s museum, library, and information services. The objectives of the policy research, data collection, analysis and modeling, evaluation, and dissemination of information carried out under this section include the following: To facilitate planning for, and building of, institutional capacity in order to improve— The Director is authorized to enter into grants, contracts, cooperative agreements, and other arrangements with Federal agencies, public and private organizations, and other entities with expertise the Director determines appropriate, to further the objectives described in subsection (b) and to carry out the responsibilities under subsection (f). In carrying out subsection (a) and in furtherance of the objectives described in subsection (b), the Director— shall conduct ongoing collaboration (as determined appropriate by the Director) and consult with— may also collaborate or consult with— The Director shall provide technical support and assistance (and other resources, to the extent practicable) to ensure consistency in data reporting and help the museum and library fields with meeting the objectives of this section. Each year, the Director shall widely disseminate, as appropriate to further the objectives described in subsection (b)— The information described in paragraph (1) shall be shared in formats that facilitate access and ease of use and are searchable. There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $3,500,000 for each of the fiscal years 2020 through 2025. Sums appropriated under paragraph (1) for any fiscal year shall remain available for obligation until expended.