ILLINOIS STATE LIBRARY

Live and Learn Construction Grant Program

Purpose and Outcomes

Grant projects maintain and improve the infrastructure of Illinois public libraries.

The Secretary of State/Illinois State Library funds public library construction grants resulting in the following outcomes:

• Increase access to facilities and programs for patrons with special needs as barriers are addressed and buildings comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act
• Expand access to library services as library facilities evolve to meet the ever changing needs of growing communities
• Improve the infrastructure and condition of public libraries

FY2013 Appropriation

$620,800 Live and Learn Fund

Range of Award

As set by Administrative Rules (23 Ill. Adm. Code 3035.435):

• Priority 1: Remodeling for accessibility $2,500 - $50,000
• Priority 2: Mini-Grants $2,500 - $35,000
• Priority 3: New construction, additions or remodeling existing buildings $25,000 - $125,000

Eligible Applicants

Public libraries recognized by the State Library as being full members in an Illinois regional library system.

Legal Authority

• 30 ILCS 105/6z 35
• 75 ILCS 10/8 (a)
• 23 Ill. Adm. Code 3035.400 – 3035.490

Program Impact in FY2012

Total Dollars Awarded

$620,800 Live and Learn Fund

Number of Grants Awarded

• 4 Accessibility
• 6 Mini-Grants
• 6 New Construction/Remodeling
• 16 Total

Number of People Served

314,551

Vignettes

Streator Public Library received a Remodeling for Accessibility Grant that assisted in the construction of an addition to their 108 year-old building, which included an accessible entrance, elevator, accessible restrooms and drinking fountains, as well as a fire stairwell to become compliant with the state fire code. The project addressed the need for access for those individuals with disabilities.

Eldorado Memorial Public Library District received a Mini-Grant to purchase and install an emergency generator so that the library can serve as an information and emergency operations center for local agencies during disasters.

Alsip-Merrionette Park Public Library District (Alsip) received a New Construction Grant to assist in adding a 17,000 square foot addition to the existing library to address space needs for a this growing community.

Reporting Manual and Forms

• Reporting Manual
• Quarterly Financial Report
• Quarterly Narrative Report
• Final Financial Report
• Final Narrative Report

Questions?

For more information about public library construction grants, please call 217-524-4901 or email mshaffer@ilsos.net.