Lincolnshire Library Seeks $100K State Grant For Security Upgrades

LINCOLNSHIRE, IL — The Vernon Area Public Library District has submitted a grant application to the Illinois State Library for security upgrades at its campus at 300 Olde Half Day Road in Lincolnshire, according to an April 14 announcement from the district.

If the grant is awarded, the library would use 2026 Illinois State Library Security Grant funds to add or upgrade several security tools. The request includes additional electronic door access readers, expanded high-resolution surveillance coverage, AI-based gun detection software and a centralized incident reporting platform.

According to the district, the requested tools were selected for their ability to provide real-time threat detection and reduce response times for local law enforcement. The library also reported that a larger camera network would improve visibility in areas that are not currently monitored. A centralized incident management system would allow the library to track security trends and use analytics to guide long-term safety planning and policy development.

The district said the project is tied to the library's mission of providing a safe and accessible environment for visitors. It also said the request was prompted by an uptick in disruptive behavior and security threats at libraries nationwide. VAPLD was among the locations targeted during a 2023 wave of bomb threats, according to the announcement.

"Our library is a place for everyone in the community, including seniors and children," Library Director Anne Rasmussen said. "This grant will help us use the best technology to protect our visitors and staff. It ensures the library stays a safe, open space where everyone can feel secure while they learn and explore."

To carry out the project, the library would partner with specialized security technology consultants to oversee configuration, according to the district. The total project cost is estimated at $100,000, which is also the full amount requested from the Illinois State Library.