Kane County Reporter

State Senator Don DeWitte (R-St. Charles) has announced that four library districts in the 33rd Senate District, serving more than 164,000 people, will receive a combined $243,986 in state library grants.

The grants awarded across Illinois include annual per capita and equalization aid grant funding, public library construction grants, and newly created technology grants aimed at upgrading technology infrastructure. The allocations for the 33rd Senate District are as follows:

- Algonquin Area: $60,408

- Crystal Lake: $59,799

- Fox River Valley (East Dundee): $106,222

- Town and Country (Elburn): $17,557

“Libraries don’t just provide entertaining and engaging programs; they’re essential for success and learning at every stage of life,” said DeWitte. “By investing in our libraries, we’re investing in our students, adult learners, and the well-being of our entire community.”

Public Library Per Capita Grants are awarded annually to support local public library services. This year, public libraries received just under $1.50 per person in their service area. These funds can be used for operational needs such as purchasing materials for collections and making capital improvements.

Libraries have two years to use the technology grants to fund additions such as hardware and software upgrades, expanding online collections and e-resources, purchasing digital devices and mobile apps, increasing Wi-Fi capacity and internet accessibility, incorporating patron self-checkouts, ensuring ADA compliance for websites, and purchasing adaptive technologies for persons with disabilities.

“Libraries throughout the state must have the resources and financial support they need to provide high-quality materials and programming to Illinois residents,” IL Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias said. “Libraries serve as centers for lifelong learning and are critical to providing opportunities for children and adults to enrich their lives.”