JOLIET – State Senator Rachel Ventura announced that 15 public libraries and school districts across the 43rd District are set to receive more than $580,000 for library services, enhanced programming and construction and security upgrades.
“Today, more than ever, investment in our libraries is crucial to ensuring free and equitable access to the resources our libraries have to offer,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “From programming to a multitude of educational and literacy resources, these investments will continue the vital work of strengthening our community.”
More than $27 million was awarded to over 640 public libraries and 2,500 school libraries statewide trough 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’ investments in reading materials, technology, literacy programs, infrastructures improvements and security upgrades. School library grants, awarded once every fiscal year, will support student learning and literacy from kindergarten through 12th grade.
In Ventura’s district, 11 public libraries and four school districts received funding, including:
- Chaney-Monge School District 88 - $850
- Lockport School District 91 - $850
- Lockport Township High SD 205 - $3,208
- Taft School District 90 - $850
- Valley View School District 365U - $12,279
- Will County SD 92 - $1,186
- Woodridge School District 68 - $2,408
- Channahon School District 17 - $954
- Elwood CCSD 203 - $850
- Joliet Public School District 86 - $5,639
- Joliet Township High SD 204 - $5,788
- Fountaindale Public Library District - $113,983
- Three Rivers Public Library District - $48,877
- Joliet Public Library - $255,615
- White Oak Library District - $130,645
A full list of public and school libraries receiving grant funding can be found here.
