Yang Rohr Announces New Funding for Local Libraries

NAPERVILLE, Ill. – State Rep. Janet Yang Rohr, D-Naperville, highlighted critical funding coming to public libraries across the state, including Naperville-area locations.

“Libraries are the backbone of our community, expanding how young kids, seniors and working families can access vital information and resources,” Yang Rohr said. “The Public Library Per Capita Grant’s funding will open up opportunities for local libraries to add to their digital and physical collections.”

The Secretary of State is awarding $18 million through the Public Library Per Capita Grant which allocates funding that supports diversifying collections, creating new events, and connecting with the community. $220,571.50 will be awarded to the Naperville Public Library.

“Naperville Public Library is incredibly appreciative for State funding through the Per Capita Grant,” Dave Della Terza, Executive Director of the Naperville Public Library said. “As one of the few funding sources public libraries have outside of property tax, State funding makes it possible for us to continue to maintain reasonable property taxes for our community while still providing the collections, programming, and services that are so important to our customers. Thank you to the Secretary of State, Rep. Yang Rohr, and all Illinois Senators and Representatives for ensuring libraries have the funding we need to create inclusive, thriving community spaces.”

“Beyond just checking books in and out, these local libraries serve as centers for community gatherings, allowing us to connect with one another on many levels,” Yang Rohr said. “Events honoring marginalized communities and their stories, workshops that connect seniors to critical online resources and family storytimes that get children interested in reading: I am excited to see how this grant funding will continue to benefit these and many other important services provided by our critical local libraries.”