SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner secured nearly $330,000 to support six literacy programs in Springfield and Decatur.

“Libraries are so much more than just books – they are vibrant community hubs and cutting-edge technology centers," said Turner (D-Springfield). "Grants tailored for libraries are an incredible way to empower their initiatives, and I can't wait to witness the remarkable advancements in technology and programming."

The grants were awarded by Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias, who has awarded nearly $22 million for library services and $6 million for literacy programs across the state.

The goal of these grants is to enhance online catalogues, support day-to-day operations, expand interlibrary loan programs and equip vision-impaired individuals with narrations of newspaper content. The literacy grants are designed to promote basic reading, math, writing and English language skills.

Six institutions in the district Turner represents received over $328,000 in funding, including Baby TALK, Richland Community College, Fishes & Loaves Outreach Ministries, Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs, Lincoln Land Community College and Lincoln Library.

A full list of grantees can be found here.