Hoffman Meets with Librarians, Highlights New State Support for Local Libraries

BELLEVILLE, Ill. – Last week state Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, spoke at the Illinois Library Association’s Metro East Library Legislative Meetup where he highlighted a change in the state’s Library
Equalization Aid Grant that will deliver additional resources to local libraries.

“If we want to have healthy communities, we need strong libraries that are properly supported,” Hoffman said. “These additional state dollars are going to help libraries implement needed physical or technological upgrades, purchase new learning materials and deliver valuable community programming.”

Recently, the General Assembly and Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias worked to update the Library Equalization Aid Grant. By raising the grant’s base minimum funding from $7.50 per person in a library’s service population to $17.50 per person, local libraries are now in line to receive hundreds of thousands in additional support.

After not previously being eligible for this specific grant funding, Belleville will now receive $79,751.12, Madison will see $20,417.38 and Venice will collect $9,926.04. East St. Louis under the old formula would have received $52,500.22, but now will see $229,570.73 in grant support.

“Our libraries aren’t just books and computers, they’re thriving community centers led by dedicated professionals,” Hoffman said. “Librarians are often unsung heroes, but their impact – especially on our youngest learners – is critical. I’m proud to have backed this additional financial support.”

The Library Equalization Aid Grant’s permanent formula changes were made possible by the Hoffman-backed House Bill 4959. Additional information and a full list of grants can be found at https://www.ilsos.gov/news/2025/november-5-2025-giannoulias-champions-permanent-funding-changes-for-libraries.html.

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

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