LibraryKANKAKEE – To provide resources to libraries through books, periodicals, multilingual materials, technology and programs, State Senator Patrick Joyce announced five school districts in Kankakee County will receive more than $9,000 in funding.

“Well-equipped and updated libraries have shown to positively impact students’ performances while in school,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “When we are able to invest in the local libraries our students frequent, we are investing in the future of the students as well.”

Funding for the School District Library Grant Program originates from the General Reserve Fund and is appropriated for this purpose by the Illinois General Assembly.

The following school districts in Joyce’s district received a total of $9,315:

  • Kankakee School District 111 - $3,426
  • Bourbonnais Elementary School District 53 - $1,897
  • Herscher Community Unit School District 2 - $1,389
  • Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School District 307 - $1,584
  • Bradley Elementary School District 61 - $1,019

The grants, awarded once every fiscal year, will support school library services for over 1 million students enrolled in kindergarten through 12th grade across the state.

“School and learning can be more exciting when students have access to areas, like libraries, that have resources available to help them succeed,” said Joyce. “With this funding, we are able to help our local school libraries stay stocked with books and provide updated technologies that will greatly benefit students in the long run.”

For a full list of libraries that received funding, visit the Secretary of State’s website.