Centralia and Mount Vernon programs receive literacy grants
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SPRINGFIELD — Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias recently announced that he awarded $28.3 million for library services and literacy programs throughout the state, including two local organizations in Centralia and Mount Vernon.
Both Kaskaskia College in Centralia and Southtown Youth Programs in Mount Vernon received funds through the literacy grants program. Kaskaskia College received $94,640 for their adult literacy programs and Southtown received $52,000 for their family programs.
“The grants include awards to the regional libraries systems across the state to enhance online catalogues at local libraries, support day-to-day operations, expand interlibrary loan programs and to radio information services that equip vision-impaired individuals with narrations of newspaper content. The literacy grants are designed to promote basic reading, math, writing and English language skills,” a press release issued by Giannoulias stated.
“Providing our libraries — the cornerstones of our communities — with the support necessary to expand their services and programs is vital to ensuring that all Illinoisans are empowered to learn, grow and explore, regardless of where they live, their physical abilities, financial situation or educational background,” Giannoulias said. “At the same time, raising literacy rates across the state opens doors for personal development and contributes to the strength and advancement of our communities.”
The press release noted that while libraries in other states face attempts to significantly decrease budgets, reduce hours and services and restrict materials, Illinois libraries have received more than $155 million in grant funds to expand library services under Giannoulias’ administration during the past two and a half years.
The Secretary of State’s office awarded grants for library and literacy programs using combined state funds and federal Library Services and Technology Act funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
