State Senator Don DeWitte (R-St. Charles) is pleased to announce that four library districts serving a total of more than 164,000 people in the 33rd Senate District are receiving a combined $243,986 in state library grants.
The grants, awarded throughout Illinois, included annual per capita and equalization aid grant funding, public library construction grants and one-time newly created technology grants to help libraries most in need to upgrade their technology infrastructure. The 33rd Senate District allocations are as follows:
- Algonquin Area — $60,408
- Crystal Lake — $59,799
- Fox River Valley (East Dundee) — $106,222
- Town and Country (Elburn) — $17,557
“Libraries don’t just provide entertaining and engaging programs; they’re essential for success and learning at every stage of life,” said DeWitte. “By investing in our libraries, we’re investing in our students, adult learners, and the well-being of our entire community.”
Public Library Per Capita Grants are awarded annually to support local public library services. This year, public libraries received just under $1.50 per person in their service area. Public libraries can use this funding for operational needs, including purchasing materials for their library collections and capital improvements to their facilities.
Libraries have two years to expend the technology 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, incorporating patron self-checkouts, and assuring ADA compliance for library websites and purchasing adaptive technologies that accommodate service needs for persons with disabilities.
“Libraries throughout the state must have the resources and financial support they need to provide high-quality materials and programming to Illinois residents,” IL Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias said. “Libraries serve as centers for lifelong learning and are critical to providing opportunities for children and adults to enrich their lives.”