SEC OF STATE AWARDS $27 MILLION IN LIBRARY GRANTS

Illinois libraries are getting a major funding boost. Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias has announced more than 27 million dollars in grants for libraries across the state. The money will support new books, technology upgrades, literacy programs, infrastructure improvements, and security enhancements. More than 22-point-6 million dollars will come through the annual Public Library Per Capita and Equalization Aid Grant programs. The fiscal year 2026 awards mark a 15 percent increase compared with last year. Giannoulias says the investment is aimed at strengthening local libraries and expanding access to vital resources for communities across Illinois.