The mission of the Northwestern University Libraries, especially in relation to the John Cage Research Grant, is to support the work of scholars worldwide by providing access to its extensive archive of primary materials documenting the life and work of 20th-century composer John Cage. This archive, established by Cage and significantly expanded posthumously, serves as a major resource for research, enriching the academic community's understanding of Cage's revolutionary contributions to music and art.
The research grant program aims to facilitate and support research projects that substantially benefit from on-site use of the Transportation Library’s distinct collections, including technical, special, and archival resources. Established in 2021, the grant provides financial support for transportation, accommodation, and meals for researchers visiting Northwestern University Libraries to conduct their research. The grant awards vary, with a total of up to $3,000 available each year, and can be awarded to individuals, teams, or divided among multiple applicants. The program is flexible in its awarding process and reserves the right to not select a recipient if suitable applications are not received.