Politics & Government

Algonquin Libraries Get $60K State Grant To Improve Services

A total of $18.1 million in Illinois Public Library Per Capita and Equalization Aid grants were recently awarded to 638 public libraries.

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For more than 40 years, the state funding has helped public libraries with a low library tax base to ensure a minimum level of funding for library services.
For more than 40 years, the state funding has helped public libraries with a low library tax base to ensure a minimum level of funding for library services. (Google Maps)

ALGONQUIN, IL — A $60,000 state grant could help pay for upgrades to services for the Algonquin Area Public Library District, according to a news release from Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White's office.

A total of $18.1 million in Illinois Public Library Per Capita and Equalization Aid grants were recently awarded to 638 public libraries serving almost 12 million patrons. For more than 40 years, the program has helped public libraries with a low library tax base to ensure a minimum level of funding for library services, the release states.

The Algonquin Area Public Library District, which includes the main library building on Harnish Drive and an east side library on Eastgate Drive, has received $60,193.28. According to the release, libraries will use the grants from the Secretary of State's office to help fund new services and products, such as audiobooks, adult programming, dual language materials and more.

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"Public Act 102-0039 allowed my office to award these grants at $1.475 per capita, an increase from the previous rate of $1.25," White said. "I am extremely proud of the outstanding service Illinois' public libraries provide to all residents. I truly believe libraries are cornerstones of our communities, and I am pleased to provide this increased funding to help them serve the public."

Nearby libraries that have been awarded grants include:

Find out what's happening in Algonquin-Lake In The Hillsfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

  • Cary Area Public Library District: $41,661
  • Crystal Lake Area Public Library: $60,095
  • Fox River Grove: $6,335
  • Huntley: $57,668

Some services public libraries provide with grant money include:

  • Large print material for aging patrons
  • Books, magazines, newspapers, CDs and DVDs
  • Audiobooks and eBooks
  • Home visit book delivery service
  • New computers, iPads and printers
  • Spanish and dual language materials
  • Expanded access to online resources
  • Adult programming
  • Newsletters, postcards and other promotional materials

For more information on the grants, visit the Secretary of State's website.

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