District 157-C awarded grant for new library books

Hickory Creek Middle School Librarian Marybeth Raynes submitted application and was awarded a “Back to Books” grant in the amount of $4,999 for the purchase of library books for District 157-C libraries. Funding for this grant was awarded by the Illinois State Library, a Department of the Office of Secretary of State, using funds provided by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services, under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA.)

District 157-C Director of Curriculum & Instruction, Janet McClarence, stated, “This award will be shared across all three of our libraries. We are thrilled that Marybeth took the initiative to apply for a district-wide library grant that benefits all students in the district. All libraries will have the chance to order new and exciting titles for all 157-C students to enjoy!”

Grant winner Mrs. Raynes said, "I'm overjoyed that our district has been awarded this grant from the Illinois State Library. Lots of great things are happening every day in our district's school libraries and I'm proud to have been a part of adding more new books to the list. Working in our school libraries, Mrs. Winkler, Ms. Calombaris and I are always happy to have more money for new books!"

The grants ranged from $1,000 to $4,999 and the intent of the grant is for the purchase of books in tangible formats (not electronic.) Purchase orders for the books must be issued, expending or encumbering grant funds, no later than September 30, 2018. An award letter to District 157-C from Jesse White, Secretary of State and State Librarian, stated, “Thank you for your efforts to provide quality library services. Libraries remain the best and most reliable source Illinoisans have for information access, resource sharing and encouraging and supporting lifelong learning. Congratulations on the success of your grant application, and best wishes for a successful project.”

District 157-C Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Maura Zinni, stated, “Mrs. Raynes has a passion to ignite the love of reading into every student who passes through our school libraries. She seeks out interesting and engaging reading material to reach every student's interest. Mrs. Raynes is a living example our district's motto, ‘A Tradition of Excellence.’"