Illinois Invests $680K to Strengthen Public Libraries

Grants will expand technology access and educational programming for students, while new security funding aims to keep libraries safe

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias announced more than $680,000 in grants awarded to public libraries across the state. The funding includes $521,044 in federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funds and $159,478 in state technology dollars for the Project Next Generation program, which supports after-school and out-of-school initiatives engaging middle and high school students. Additionally, Giannoulias opened the application period for new public library security grants, with $1.1 million available to help libraries install security equipment and technology-based measures to ensure safe environments.

Why it matters

The investments in public libraries come at a critical time, as libraries across Illinois have faced an alarming increase in threats of violence. The new security grants aim to help libraries protect staff, keep doors open, and continue advancing reading and access in every community. Meanwhile, the Project Next Generation grants will expand technology access and educational programming for students, supporting the next generation of learners.

The details

The $680,522 in Project Next Generation grants will be awarded to 36 public libraries to help them expand technology access and educational programming for middle and high school students. Libraries submitted detailed proposals outlining services and activities to engage students, along with itemized budgets. The new public library security grants, authorized under state law, will provide up to $100,000 per agency to support the installation of security equipment such as cameras, alarms, and checkpoints, as well as other technology-based measures.

  • The Project Next Generation grants were announced on February 25, 2026.
  • The application period for the public library security grants opened on February 25, 2026 and the deadline is April 15, 2026.

The players

Alexi Giannoulias

Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian who announced the library grants and security funding.

Cynthia M. Robinson

Executive Director of the Illinois Library Association, who commented on how the Project Next Generation grants help libraries meet the needs of young people.

Chris Brown

Commissioner of the Chicago Public Library, who said the security grant funding reinforces the partnership between libraries and the communities they serve.

Laura Murphy

State Senator (28th District - Des Plaines) who sponsored the legislation enabling the new library security grant program.

Michael Coffey Jr.

State Representative (95th District - Springfield) who sponsored the legislation enabling the new library security grant program.

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What they’re saying

“We are committed to investing in the next generation of learners while also ensuring our libraries remain safe, welcoming spaces for all Illinoisans.”

— Alexi Giannoulias, Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian (wmix94.com)

“Project Next Generation grants help libraries meet young people where they are – by expanding access to technology, mentorship and meaningful learning opportunities.”

— Cynthia M. Robinson, Executive Director, Illinois Library Association (wmix94.com)

“Public libraries are essential civic infrastructure sustained by the people and neighborhoods they serve. By strengthening funding and expanding support for security improvements, the Secretary of State's office is reinforcing the partnership that allows libraries across Illinois to protect staff, keep doors open, and advance reading and access in every community.”

— Chris Brown, Commissioner, Chicago Public Library (wmix94.com)

What’s next

Libraries must email the completed grant application and required certification of eligibility to ISLgrants@ilsos.gov by April 15, 2026 to be considered for the public library security grants.

The takeaway

These investments in public libraries across Illinois demonstrate a commitment to supporting the next generation of learners, while also recognizing the need to ensure libraries remain safe, welcoming spaces for all. The combination of expanded educational programming and enhanced security measures aims to strengthen libraries as essential community hubs that advance reading, access, and inclusion.