CHICAGO – State Senator Emil Jones III (D-Chicago) is excited to announce that the 14th District will receive more than $4.5 million in grants for local libraries.

“Libraries are more than just a place to rent books – they are a resource for people to learn and build community engagement,” Jones said. “A library is often an extension of a classroom, and it is important for our communities to be thoroughly equipped with the resources necessary to teach our children.”

For more than four decades, the Illinois Public Library Per Capita and Equalization Aid Grants Program has helped to ensure public libraries with a low library tax base a minimum level of funding for library services. The millions to be received by local libraries is part of $18.1 million in grants awarded to 638 public libraries across the state.

The following libraries in the 14th District will receive funds:

• Alsip-Merrionette Park Public Library District - $32,863.00
• Blue Island Public Library - $34,966.35
• Calumet Park Public Library - $11,556.63
• Chicago Public Library - $4,488,170.67
• Crestwood Public Library District - $13,772.08
• Dixmoor Public Library District - $5,374.90
• Acorn Public Library District - $55,064.70
• Palos Heights Public Library - $18,459.63
• William Leonard Public Library District - $7,872.08

Some of the valuable services public libraries provide with grant money include audiobooks and eBooks, adult programming, dual language materials and more.

“The pandemic has put more stress on students, but libraries provide a safe place for them to learn and grow,” Jones said. “I salute the libraries of the 14th District as they bounce back from the devastations of COVID-19, and look forward to the ways they’ll benefit from this funding.”

People can visit the secretary of state’s website for more information on the grants.