SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias announced more than $680,000 in grants awarded to public libraries across Illinois and opened the application period for additional funding to support library safety and security, advancing a comprehensive effort to strengthen libraries and the services they provide to communities statewide.
The $680,522 in Project Next Generation grants will help 36 public libraries expand technology access and educational programming for middle and high school students. Applications for the public library security grants must be submitted by April 15, 2026.
“We are committed to investing in the next generation of learners while also ensuring our libraries remain safe, welcoming spaces for all Illinoisans,” Giannoulias said. “These grants support learning, mentorship and technology access, and under new law provide libraries with resources to proactively address growing security challenges while upholding the core values of access, intellectual freedom, and inclusion.”
“Project Next Generation grants help libraries meet young people where they are – by expanding access to technology, mentorship and meaningful learning opportunities,” said Cynthia M. Robinson, Executive Director of the Illinois Library Association. “At the same time, the new security grants recognize the realities libraries are facing and provide critical resources to ensure our buildings remain safe, welcoming spaces for students, families and communities across Illinois.”
“Public libraries are essential civic infrastructure sustained by the people and neighborhoods they serve,” said Chris Brown, Commissioner of the Chicago Public Library. “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.”
Project Next Generation Library Grants
The Project Next Generation grants support after-school and out-of-school initiatives that engage middle and high school students in educational activities while providing access to technology and mentors in public library settings. The program is funded with $521,044 in federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funds and $159,478 in state technology dollars.
All public libraries recognized as full member libraries within their regional library systems were eligible to apply. Each funded library submitted a detailed proposal outlining services and activities to engage students, along with an itemized budget that complies with federal and state cost requirements.
View a complete list of Project Next Generation grant recipients.
Library Security Grants
Amid an alarming increase in threats of violence to libraries and librarians across Illinois, Giannoulias announced that applications are now being accepted for public library security grants, a new initiative authorized under state law to help libraries ensure safe environments for patrons, employees and the community. Public libraries may apply for up to $100,000 per agency to support technology-based security enhancements. Giannoulias has allotted $1.1 million in state funding this year’s round of grants.
Under the new law, grant applicants may request funding to install security equipment such as security cameras, silent or duress alarms and security checkpoints, as well as other technology-based measures. Allowable expenses include assessments and planning that result in technological solutions, the purchase and installation of security systems and training staff to operate new equipment.
The legislation enabling the new security grant program, SB 1550, was sponsored by State Senator Laura Murphy (28th District – Des Plaines) and State Representative Michael Coffey Jr. (95th District – Springfield).
Libraries must email the completed grant application and required certification of eligibility to ISLgrants@ilsos.gov. Questions may be directed to the Illinois State Library at 217-524-8836.