SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) —  The Lincoln Library in Springfield received one million dollars from the federal government for broad renovations to the facility. This will include a single public entrance for safety, modern shelving, new flooring, and technology upgrades. 

But a key focus will be the youth services area, serving everyone under the age of 18. 

"Libraries are safe havens for our youth," said Gwen Harrison, the Library Director. "Our young people need a place to go to be free and safe." 

Friday is National Gun Violence Awareness Day, which Senator Dick Durbin said timed well with the announcement, as he hopes it will reduce youth gun violence in the area. 

"The Youth Services space at Lincoln Library also has an important role in keeping kids safe," said Durbin. "Safe spaces like the Lincoln Library can be vital to the protection of children and families, especially when crime rates rise in the summer." 

After school programs and youth organizations, say investments like these are crucial to giving students somewhere safe to go when school is out for the summer, and parents are at work. 

A portion of the funding will help separate the teen zone from the main area of the library, helping teens feel comfortable reading, using the computers or gaming systems, and connecting with each other. 

"Gun violence is an issue and it starts younger and younger each year," said Springfield Mayor Misty Buscher. "We have to engage our students in activities that area dun and interesting and also activities that get into their minds." 

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