Thanks to the Illinois Secretary of State’s public library grants, two local libraries are set to receive over $317,000 for upgrades, State Senator Cristina Castro announced Wednesday.

“This funding is more than just a line item – it’s an investment in making sure valuable resources and services are available to everyone in our communities,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “With additional support, Elgin and Streamwood families will benefit from the diverse range of books, online collections, multilingual materials and summer programming at their local libraries for years to come.”

Awarded annually, the Public Library Per Capita and Equalization Aid Grants support public libraries across Illinois in providing services to nearly 12 million patrons statewide. Grant funding can be used to support collection development, including books and materials, online resources and internet access, personnel, public programming and capital upgrades.

This year, the Secretary of State awarded $18 million to 639 public libraries across the state, including two in the 22^nd Senate District. In Elgin, Gail Borden Public Library received $221,113, and Streamwood’s Poplar Creek Public Library received $96,826 – for a combined total of $317,939.

More information about the Secretary of State’s library grant programs can be found here.