The grants, awarded once every fiscal year, will support school library services for 1.2 million students enrolled in kindergarten through 12^th grade. Resources and services provided through the grant include library books, e-books, audiobooks, periodicals, multilingual materials, technology and programs.

“It’s imperative that all Illinois students have access to necessary resources including reading materials and learning services at our public school libraries,” Giannoulias said. “School libraries serve as places of learning and discovery. These funds will ensure that our libraries are well-equipped to educate and inspire our future generations.”

Based on a statutory formula, school districts receive $0.885 per student for their enrollment at each school having a qualified library. Funding for the program originates from the General Reserve Fund and is appropriated for this purpose by the Illinois General Assembly.

“The members of the Association of Illinois School Library Educators (AISLE) are pleased to receive these generous grants from Secretary Giannoulias to expand our libraries with a more robust offering of resources and services,” said West Leyden High School Librarian and President of AISLE Janine Asmus, which provides leadership and support for the development, promotion, and improvement of the school library media profession and programs to promote life-long learning for the students of Illinois.

“This funding will allow library staff to maintain and bolster school library educational offerings, ensuring that all Illinois students have the opportunity to learn and explore their interests,” Amus said. “All of us at AISLE are most appreciative of the continuous support of our Secretary of State and State Librarian, Alexi Giannoulias.”

View a list of the school libraries that received funding here.