Hoffman Highlights Local School Library Grants, Underscores Importance for Students

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Emphasizing the importance libraries have in helping students unlock their potential, state Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, is applauding the recent award of state library grants to help local schools with services and in acquiring new educational material.

“We want our students to develop a thirst for knowledge, and we can help that by properly supporting our school libraries,” Hoffman said. “These annual grants help school libraries purchase new books, periodicals, e-books, audiobooks and other learning tools. Every book is an opportunity for growth and a chance to spark new interests, and it’s important we continue to support these valuable assets.”

Grants for libraries statewide were announced this week by Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, who also serves as State Librarian. Amounts are based off of a per student funding formula for schools with a qualifying library, and are appropriated by the Illinois General Assembly. Hoffman supported this year’s state budget, which will award:

– $4,071.89 for Belleville Township High School District 201,
– $2,221.35 for O’Fallon Township High School District 203,
– $850 for Belle Valley School District 119,
– $850 for Harmony-Emge School District 175,
– $850 for Signal Hill School District 181,
– $850 for Grant Community Consolidated School District 110, and
– $850 for High Mount School District 116.

For more information, please contact RepJayHoffman@gmail.com.