BURBANK – State Senator Mike Porfirio recently announced a total of $6,967 has been granted to North Riverside Public Library District’s Project Next Generation.

“Support like this helps our libraries remain a cornerstone of learning and connection,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “This funding will ensure the North Riverside Public Library will be able to maintain essential services so many in our community rely on.”

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 throughout 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.

“Equipping our libraries with the resources they need to increase services and expand offerings is essential to enhancing the accessibility of learning materials for all Illinois residents regardless of their geographic location, accessibility needs, income status or educational level,” Giannoulias said. “Meanwhile, increasing the state’s literacy level results in opportunities for individual success and makes communities stronger.”

A full list of grantees can be found here.