Local libraries in La Salle, Bureau, Putnam and Livingston counties received more than $175,000 in grant money.

In total, the Secretary of State's Office awarded $15.4 million to 638 public libraries statewide for the Fiscal Year 2020 Illinois Public LIbrary Per Capita and Equalization Aid Grants.

Ottawa's Reddick Library received $30,377.50; Streator $17,137; La Salle $12,011.25; Peru $12,868.75; Spring Valley $6,947; Marseilles $6,367.50; Princeton $9,575; Oglesby $5,113.75 and Utica $3,737.50.

Due to resource disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, our public libraries have never been more important and these funds will help them continue to serve the public with valuable resources, said Secretary of State Jess White, who also is the state's librarian, in a press statement. Libraries have remained committed by providing drive-up WiFi access, significantly increasing the use of eBook collections and implementing curbside services.

Some of the services public libraries provide with the grant money include the following:

Expand WiFi access to include drive-up accessibility

Access to curbside services

Large print material for 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

Per Capita Grant funding is authorized under Illinois library law for public libraries, which allows resources for expenses, such as materials, personnel, equipment, electronic access, telecommunications and technology. Equalization Aid Grants help qualifying public libraries with a low library tax base ensuring a minimum level of funding for library services.

Ottawa: $30,377.50

Streator: $17,137

Peru: $12,868.75

La Salle: $12,011.25

Somonauk: $11,733.75

Sandwich: $10,200

Princeton: $9,575

Mendota: $9,215

Hennepin: $7,507.50

Spring Valley: $6,947

Marseilles: $6,367.50

Sheridan: $5,963.75

Oglesby: $5,113.75

Newark: $3,935

Utica: $3,737.50

Earlville: $3,476.25

Minonk: $2,597.50

LaMoille: $2,290

Flanagan: $2,042.50

Ladd: $1,985

Tiskilwa: $1,858.75

Toluca: $1,767.50

Wyanet: $1,705

Wenona: $1,320

Ohio: $1,181.25

Sheffield: $1,157.50

Lostant: $1,140

Buda: $672.50

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More than $175000 awarded to local libraries through annual grant program - MyWebTimes.com