Lisa Hernandez Lauds Expanded Funding to Local Libraries

CICERO, Ill. – Thanks to a new funding formula passed by the General Assembly, state Rep. Elizabeth “Lisa” Hernandez, D-Cicero, is proud to announce that Cicero Public Library will receive almost $100,000 in new state funds through Library Equalization Aid Grants to help cover costs related to equipment upgrades, new materials and community programming.

“For underserved communities, libraries can be a great equalizing factor: raising reading and comprehension skills for young people, opening doors for career opportunities for young adults and connecting seniors to affordable, all-day programs that keep them active,” Hernandez said. “I am proud to join the Secretary of State in welcoming this expanded formula to our state and reaffirm my commitment to finding new ways to keep libraries at the forefront of our efforts to move Illinois forward.”

Recently, the Secretary of State and lawmakers backed an update to the funding formula for Library Equalization Aid Grants, raising the base minimum funding from $7.50 per person in a library’s service population to $17.50 per person. With federal cuts threatening library funding this new state support will deliver additional dollars to more libraries in more communities across the state.

Under the new formula, Cicero Public Library is slated to receive nearly $100,000 to purchase new learning materials, expand offered programs and upgrade old or outdated library equipment.

“If we want educated, healthier communities, we need to support our local libraries,” Hernandez said. “Our area is fortunate to be served by Cicero Public Library and its dedicated staff, let’s continue to build on this new support.”