WEST CHICAGO – State Senator Karina Villa announced eight public libraries and school districts across the 25th District are set to receive more than $485,000 for library services, enhanced programming and construction and security upgrades.
“Libraries are critical community hubs that support all of our neighbors – from young children to older adults,” said Villa (D-West Chicago). “Investing in community spaces is essential to foster learning and connect residents with critical support.”
More than $27 million was awarded to over 640 public libraries and 2,500 school libraries statewide through 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, infrastructure improvements and security upgrades. School library grants, awarded once every fiscal year, will support student learning and literacy from kindergarten through 12th grade.
In Villa’s district, four public libraries and four school districts received funding, including:
- Aurora Public Library District – $306,921
- Bartlett Public Library District – $61,257
- East Aurora School District 131 – $10,160
- Illinois Mathematics & Science Academy – $850
- Messenger Public Library of North Aurora – $55,538
- West Chicago Community High School District 94 – $1,702
- West Chicago Elementary School District 33 – $2,584
- West Chicago Public Library District – $49,177
A full list of public and school libraries receiving grant funding can be found here.
