JOLIET — State Senator Rachel Ventura recently announced that a total of $66,297 has been granted to Joliet Junior College’s Adult Volunteer Literacy Program.

“These grant dollars will improve literacy levels, which will help improve people’s academic careers and help them become lifelong learners,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Investing in our libraries and aiding individuals with skills in reading, writing, math or improving their English proficiency is one of the greatest gifts we can back to the community.”

The grants were awarded by Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias, who has awarded nearly $22 million for library services and $6 million for literacy programs throughout the state.

The goal of these grants is to enhance online catalogues, support day-to-day operations, expand interlibrary loan programs and equip vision-impaired individuals with narrations of newspaper content. The literacy grants are designed to promote basic reading, math, writing and English language skills.

“Equipping our libraries with the resources they need to increase services and expand offerings is essential to enhancing the accessibility of learning materials for all Illinois residents regardless of their geographic location, accessibility needs, income status or educational level,” Giannoulias said. “Meanwhile, increasing the state’s literacy level results in opportunities for individual success and makes communities stronger.”

To learn more about Joliet Junior College’s Adult Volunteer Literacy Program, visit their website.