SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - The Illinois Secretary of State’s office is awarding nearly $20 million in grant funding to libraries across the state.
Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias said, “A library is more than just a building with books, it’s the epicenter of opportunity, discovery and community connection. From early childhood education to workforce development, libraries empower individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Properly funding our libraries will ensure that they are able to continue generating an outsized impact in communities across Illinois.”
Giannoulias’ office also championed legislation to allow the Secretary of State’s office to issue security grants for libraries.
In 2023, the office spearheaded first-in-the-nation legislation designed to prevent book banning.
Per-Capita Grants
639 public libraries statewide will get nearly $18 million in per-capita grants. Funding amounts were calculated according to a statutory formula based on the population of each community.
Libraries can use the funds to support resources and services for their communities including books, e-books, online resources and internet access, personnel, public programming and capital expenditures.
View a full list of libraries and award amounts.
Technology Grants
The office is issuing over $1 million in new grants to public libraries in underserved communities with needed technology enhancements. 88 public libraries are receiving a grant – totaling an amount of either $27,500 or $12,500 – depending on the size of the population they serve.
Libraries can use the grants to help fund things such as adding hardware and software, expanding online collections and e-resources, purchasing digital devices and mobile apps, increasing Wi-Fi capacity and internet accessibility, assuring ADA compliance for library websites and purchasing adaptive technologies that accommodate service needs for persons with disabilities, and incorporating patron self-checkouts.
View a full list of libraries and award amounts.
Construction Grants
The office is also awarding nearly $1 million in grants to assist public libraries with construction costs at their facilities. Libraries can use these grants to begin new construction, make additions to existing buildings or remodel for accessibility.
View a full list of libraries and award amounts.
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