CHICAGO – State Senator Javier Loera Cervantes is thrilled to announce that five libraries in his district are set to receive a combined total of over $200,000 for library services and programming.
“Our libraries offer so many important resources, including access to a wide variety of books and technology that they may not be able to afford on their own,” said Cervantes (D-Chicago). “It is important to continue to invest in these spaces, and I am glad that several libraries in my community will receive grant funding to bolster their services.”
Through the Illinois Secretary of State’s Public Library Per Capita and Equalization Aid Grants program, 639 public libraries statewide will receive nearly $18 million in grants. Libraries may use the funds to support resources and services for their communities, including books, e-books, online resources and internet access, personnel, public programming and capital expenditures.
Five libraries in the district Cervantes represents received over $200,000 in funding, including:
- Linda Sokol Francis Brookfield Library, $28,727
- Cicero Public Library, $125,770
- Lyons Public Library, $15,955
- Riverside Public Library, $15, 978
- Stickney-Forest View Public Library, $200, 145
Cervantes is currently partnering with these and other local libraries to run a Summer Book Club for young people in his district, offering a pizza party to any children who complete eight books before Aug. 15. This collaboration has only strengthened his passion for investing in libraries, and excitement about these grants coming to his district.
“Many young people have a passion for reading, but come from families that can’t afford to keep up with their reading appetite,” said Cervantes. “Thanks to libraries, children are able to access so many books for free—helping them learn and grow as individuals, regardless of their financial circumstances.”
More information on available library grants can be found here.
