CENTRAL ILLINOIS (WCIA) — Several public libraries in Central Illinois are receiving some of the funding from a $2 million grant from the Illinois Secretary of State's office to help improve technology.
State officials say most public library funding comes from property taxes, which can leave libraries in poor areas in a difficult position. These funds are intended to upgrade technology in public libraries in underserved areas, including purchasing digital equipment, enhancing software and hardware, expanding online collections and electronic resources, improving internet access, implementing self-checkout, and acquiring adaptive technology and ADA compliance for library websites for people with disabilities.
“Libraries play a vital role in our communities, so it's essential that libraries evolve to meet the needs of their residents and expand their offerings, especially in terms of technology,” said Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias. “We have a responsibility to ensure that all communities, regardless of location or wealth, have access to the best library programming, not just written materials. These grants will help narrow the digital divide.”
Of the state's 113 public libraries, 13 in central Illinois will benefit from the grant.
- Beardstown: Beardstown-Houston Memorial Public Library – $12,500
- Centralia: Centralia Regional Library District – $27,500
- Charleston: Charleston Carnegie Public Library – $27,500
- Chrisman: Chrisman Public Library – $12,500
- Danville: Danville Public Library – $27,500
Decatur: Decatur Public Library – $27,500 - Farmer City: Farmer City Public Library – $12,500
- Georgetown: Georgetown Public Library – $12,500
- Melvin: Melvin Public Library – $12,500
- Panasonic: Carnegie Schuyler Library – $12,500
- Paris: Carnegie Public Library of Paris – $12,500
- Rantoul: Rantoul Public Library – $27,500
- Watseka: Watseka Public Library – $12,500
Rep. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia (D-Ill.) hopes the grants will help expand access to quality technology.
“Our libraries provide a place for all Illinois residents to connect with their communities, think, learn and explore new ideas,” he said. “I'm excited to see how libraries will use this technology grant to expand opportunities for our residents, increase access to information and help our communities thrive.”
Libraries that receive grant funding can begin technology projects as early as June 28, and grant funds must be used within two years.
For a complete list of libraries receiving this Illinois grant, click here.
