PEORIA – A number of libraries in the 46th District will soon receive upgrades to services as a result of more than $363,000 in state grants, State Senator Dave Koehler (D-Peoria) announced.
“Libraries provide our communities with a wide range of resources beyond lending books and movies,” Koehler said. “Many people rely on libraries for access to the internet or to be able to use computers and printers. It’s critical that we provide our libraries with the support they need to keep offering these resources.”
The $363,000 received by 12 local libraries is part of $18.1 million in grants awarded to 638 public libraries across the state. For more than 40 years, the Illinois Public Library Per Capita and Equalization Aid Grants Program has helped public libraries with a low library tax base to ensure a minimum level of funding for library services.
Libraries will use the grants from the secretary of state’s office to help fund new services and products, such as audiobooks, adult programming, dual language materials and more.
“When we supply libraries with adequate funding, they are better equipped to serve our communities,” Koehler said. “As the needs of residents expand and change, the services offered by our libraries will as well, thanks to these grants.”
The following libraries will receive funds:
- Alpha Park Public Library District, $41,943
- Parlin-Ingersoll Public Library, $21,688
- Creve Coeur Public Library District, $8,040
- Spoon River Library District, $5,084
- Fondulac Public Library District, $33,562
- Farmington Area Library District, $10,354
- Lewistown Carnegie Public Library District, $7,984
- Marquette Heights Public Library, $4,165
- Pekin Public Library, $50,288
- Peoria Public Library, $169,635
- Peoria Heights Public Library, $9,080
- South Pekin Public Library, $1,690
For more information on the grants, people can visit the secretary of state’s website.
