Scherer Welcomes Secretary of State Library Grant for Decatur and Springfield Public Schools

DECATUR, Ill. – State Rep. Sue Scherer, D-Decatur, is applauding new state funding to support books, educational materials, and programming for Decatur’s and Springfield’s public schools’ libraries.

“As the price of books and other educational materials continues to rise with inflation, grants like this are more critical than ever for our schools and the communities they serve,” said Scherer. “As a former educator, I saw firsthand how many of my students loved the library, and I am excited to see what joy these new dollars bring.”

State grants made possible by the fiscally and socially responsible state budget Scherer helped to pass will provide $1.4 million to Illinois’ public-school libraries. Decatur and Springfield public schools received amounts just over $6,000 and $4,000, respectively to purchase new and up-to-date books, additional educational materials and technology. Awards since 2020, when the program’s formula increased funding by more than 10 percent per student, have been some of the most impactful in the program’s history.

“Our kids deserve the best schools – and that goes for teachers, facilities and libraries.” said Scherer. “I am proud to see our local schools receive this critical funding, and I am excited to see it put to good use.”