ROCKFORD –Thanks to support from State Senator Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford) to provide assistance to local libraries for pandemic recovery, two libraries in the district he represents will receive nearly $75,000 in combined grants to grow and enhance their services.

“Libraries have been a valued resource for continued education, growth, and community development throughout the pandemic,” Stadelman said. “This grant program provides the resources needed for libraries to ensure residents are connected to these tools.”

The initiative is aimed to respond directly to difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The grant provides funding for libraries to modify services, transform spaces and develop resources for their local recovering workforce and to ensure all operations can be provided safely and effectively as the pandemic continues.

The Rockford Public Library is set to receive $50,000 and the North Suburban Public Library District will receive $22,480 in grants from this program.

“Library staff have worked tirelessly to provide the necessary resources for those that have needed it most during the pandemic,” Stadelman said. “I hope this funding will help these libraries continue to provide educational tools and resources to our community and ensure they are even more accessible than before.”

For a full list of libraries receiving a grant, click here.

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