Welch, Secretary of State Announce Funding to Help School Libraries Purchase New Learning Materials

 

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – New state funds will help local school libraries purchase the most up-to-date books, periodicals, digital and audio books, and equipment thanks to the work of House Speaker Emanuel ‘Chris’ Welch and Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias.

“By inspiring curiosity and giving students access to a whole world of knowledge, our school libraries are where a lifelong love of learning takes root and where opportunity flourishes,” Welch said. “Keeping these libraries stocked with materials that spark every student’s interest, meet every young learner’s needs, and share a rich variety of perspectives is a huge job, so I’m proud to prioritize this partnership between our state and our schools to continue giving local students the keys to a world-class education.”

The state budget Welch helped craft includes more than $1.6 million to help school libraries fund the purchases of new educational materials. School districts operating a qualified library receive grant funding for each student served. The secretary of state’s office announced grants for 2,500 districts statewide earlier this week, including seven local districts:

  • Berkeley School District 87: $1,753.19

  • Lindop School District 92: $850

  • Forest Park School District 91: $850

  • Proviso Township High School District 209: $3,652.40

  • Hillside School District 93: $850

  • Butler School District 53: $850

  • Westchester School District 92.5: $876.15

These funds support school library services for students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Resources and services provided through the grant include library books, e-books, audiobooks, periodicals, multilingual materials, technology and programs.

 
Andrea Garcia