ILLINOIS SECRETARY OF STATE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 16, 2003 CONTACT: Randy Nehrt P CONTACT: Pat McGuckin

White Awards Library Services and Technology Act Grants

SPRINGFIELD — Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White today awarded 374 Fiscal year 2004 Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grants totaling $2.1 million.

The Illinois State Library administers LSTA grants with funds distributed by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services. LSTA grants are available for the development of projects that provide and focus on library service, new initiatives and library activities. Public, school, academic and special libraries are all eligible to receive the grants.

"Illinois librarians are constantly working to enhance their skills, keep abreast of industry changes and develop new ways to improve the services they offer to citizens," White said. "Our libraries have been extremely innovative in proposing new programs and initiatives to deal with specific issues in their local communities, and LSTA grants help them achieve those goals. The commitment, professionalism and creativity of our librarians make them very valuable assets in our communities. As State Librarian, I am proud to be able to help my fellow librarians who are enriching all of our lives."

White said six different types of LSTA grants are being awarded this year:

• Back to Books grants are used to purchase fiction, non-fiction and reference books for library users not traditionally identified as a group but who have specific requirements, similar needs or common interests. Examples of such groups could include academic disciplines, commuters, ethnic populations, job seekers and persons speaking a language other than English. Grant funds must also be used to develop an outreach program to promote these materials.

• Opportunity Knocks Once More grants are designed to encourage libraries that have never written or received a grant to apply. Funds may be used for extending library hours, increasing services, or planning and implementing programs for children, teens, adults and seniors.

• Building Innovative Grants challenge the applicant to develop a creative, innovative or unique library program based on user or community need.

• Digital Imaging grants allow libraries to create Internet-ready electronic versions of their materials and collections, specifically Illinois related historical and cultural materials.

• Economic Challenge grants are designed for libraries facing serious economic challenges. Funds may be used to keep doors open or expand hours, maintain current staffing in light of economic uncertainty or severe budget constraints, or to replace broken or obsolete equipment in order to maintain system standards.

• Value of Libraries/Building on our Strengths grants are designed for libraries to establish partnerships that reflect, enhance and promote library strengths and the value of multi-library and multi-cultural projects. Libraries are encouraged to work with other libraries or community agencies to address local needs. Mentoring opportunities are encouraged.

A list of libraries obtaining Fiscal year 2004 LSTA grants