ELGIN – State Senator Cristina Castro announced local community and school libraries will receive more than $585,000 in grant funding for library services, security upgrades, new technology, and enhanced programming.
“Libraries serve as welcoming spaces for residents to grow their knowledge and cultivate curiosity and imagination,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “I look forward to seeing this funding expand opportunities for our local libraries to expand programs and opportunities for 22nd District families.”
More than $27 million was awarded to over 640 public libraries and 2,500 school libraries statewide through the Illinois Secretary of State’s Public Library Per Capita and Equalization Aid Grants, Security and Construction Grants and School Library Grants. The funding will support libraries’ ability to improve security measures, invest in books and technology and make security and construction upgrades. School library grants, awarded once every fiscal year, will support student learning and literacy from kindergarten through 12th grade.
In Castro’s district, Gail Borden Public Library in Elgin received a combined total of $349,770. Poplar Creek Library in Streamwood is set to receive $211,597 and School District U-46 in Elgin is also set to receive $28,536.
The investments build upon the state’s efforts to strengthen fair access to information and support libraries amid efforts by the Trump administration to dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the federal agency that serves as primary support for public libraries.
“I will always fight for libraries to receive the resources needed to support their community,” said Castro. “It is crucial that our libraries can continue expanding access to technology and educational programs.”
A full list of public and school libraries receiving grant funding can be found here.
