Origionally published on Niles-Morton Grove Patch on Aug. 16, 2024
NILES-MORTON GROVE, IL — The Niles-Maine and Morton Grove Public Library are set to receive a combined $125,449 in state grant money to enhance their services, announced Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias.
The Niles-Maine District Library will receive $87,883, while Morton Grove Public Library will receive $37,566.
Libraries can use the money for operational needs, such as buying materials for their collections or making capital improvements to their facilities.
"Libraries are hubs of community engagement, bringing residents together through programming and access to knowledge," said State Senator Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago), whose district includes both Skokie and Lincolnwood. "These grants will ensure our libraries continue to serve as vibrant community centers."
Libraries in the 8th Senate District, which serves more than 165,000 people, received a total of $246,168 in grants.
In addition to the funding for Skokie and Lincolnwood, other recently announced grants for area include $115,999 to the Evanston Public Library, $100,718 to the Skokie Public Library, $41,847 to the Wilmette Public Library, $37,566 to the Morton Grove Public Library and $20,001 to the Lincolnwood Public Library.
“Our libraries are invaluable for promoting lifelong learning and education,” said 16th District State Rep. Kevin Olickal (D-Skokie).
“Investing in our libraries directly supports the educational opportunities and personal development of our community," Olickal said. "We are grateful to the Secretary of State for recognizing this and committing resources to ensure our libraries continue to serve our community.”
According to the Secretary of State's Office, equalization aid provides funding to libraries under a formula that makes sure they get a minimum amount of money when local tax revenues fall short of meeting the needs of a community.
Meanwhile, public library construction grants offer financial support for refurbishing and renovating library facilities, ensuring they meet accessibility requirements and sometimes constructing new buildings.
"Libraries throughout the state must have the resources and financial support they need to provide high-quality materials and programming to Illinois residents," Giannoulias said. "Libraries serve as centers for lifelong learning and are critical to providing opportunities for children and adults to enrich their lives."
This year, a new technology grant program was introduced, targeting libraries in communities with lower tax bases, higher population needs and significant poverty levels.
Under the initiative, libraries have two years to spend the grant money on various technological improvements, including hardware, software, digital collections, increased Wi-Fi capacity and adaptive technologies to meet the needs of patrons with disabilities.
