Thousands of dollars in library grants go to local school districts

The state of Illinois has announced that it will be awarding $25,000 to several local school districts for their efforts to improve access to books and other library resources for students.

The funds will be distributed through the School District Library Grant Program, with recipients receiving grants ranging from $5,365 to $2,728.

Included in the program are five districts in The Record coverage area: Kenilworth 38 ($850), Avoca 37 ($850), Wilmette 39 ($2,728), New Trier 203 ($3,303) and Winnetka 36 ($1,476). Other districts include Evanston’s 65, Evanston High School 202, Glenbrook 225 and Glenview 34.

“By investing in our local school libraries, we are investing in the foundations of education for every student,” said Ill. Sen. Laura Fine (D-Glenview), who announced the local grants in a press release. “Libraries are essential in providing access to materials and skills that will help them along their academic journey.”

The grants are awarded once a year, and are aimed at supporting school library services for students across the state.

“Libraries are a cornerstone in our communities and schools,” Fine said in the release. “It is important to ensure that students have access to quality programs and resources.”

The Record is a nonprofit, nonpartisan community newsroom that relies on reader support to fuel its independent local journalism.

Subscribe to The Record to fund responsible news coverage for your community.

Already a subscriber? You can make a tax-deductible donation at any time.