Central Illinois libraries receive funding for technology, construction improvements

CENTRAL ILLINOIS (WCIA) — $20 million will be parceled out to libraries across the state to improve library services. The Illinois Secretary of State’s Office said multiple Central Illinois libraries will be getting a slice of the money.

Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias announced on Tuesday that the grant funding will help ensure access to resources and programming for all Illinoisans. The money will be given out through three different grants aimed at helping libraries pay for construction, technology improvements and per-capita costs.

“A library is more than just a building with books, it’s the epicenter of opportunity, discovery and community connection,” Giannoulias said. “From early childhood education to workforce development, libraries empower individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Properly funding our libraries will ensure that they are able to continue generating an outsized impact in communities across Illinois.”

The office will give nearly $1 million to help public libraries with construction costs. The money can be used to begin new construction, make additions to existing buildings or remodel for accessibility.

The Atwood-Hammond Public Library District received $125,000, which was the largest possible grant amount. Ten other libraries received funding through the library construction grant program.

Additionally, 88 libraries in Illinois will also see $1 million in funding meant to improve technology in underserved communities.

Giannoulias said the money can be used to add hardware and software, expand online collections and e-resources, improving Wi-Fi and internet accessibility and more. In Central Illinois, the libraries that can expect to see some money rolling their way include:

• Homer Community Library ($12,500)
• Neoga Public Library District ($12,500)
• Ogden Rose Public Library ($12,500)
• Paxton Carnegie Library ($12,500)
• Sidney Community Library ($12,500)

To see a complete list of the libraries which will receive technology grants, click here.

639 public libraries in the state will receive almost $18 million in per-capita funding. The money was calculated based on the population of each community, and libraries can use it on resources and services like books, internet access, programming and more.

Several Central Illinois libraries that will receive per-capita funding include:

• Champaign Public Library ($130,245.45)
• Danville Public Library ($43,075.90)
• Decatur Public Library ($104,019.95)
• Forsyth Public Library ($5,507.65)
• Moyer District Library ($7,880.93)
• Hoopeston Public Library District ($13,167.33)
• Lincoln Public Library District ($19,632.25)

For a full list of libraries which received per-capita grants, click here.