Some greater Peoria libraries can extend their after-school programs for at-risk youth thanks to new grants.
The Alpha Park Public Library District in Bartonville and the Peoria Public Library have been awarded Project Next Generation grants totaling $31-thousand.
Assistant Majority Leader Dave Koehler (D-Peoria) announced the awards Thursday. The funds, awarded by the Illinois Secretary of State’s office, are given to support public library mentorship and educational programming in low-income and underserved areas.
“Giving at-risk kids the opportunity to learn valuable skills in a safe environment can only serve to improve our communities,” Koehler said in a written release.
The Alpha Park Public Library District will receive $18,500. The Peoria Public Library gains $12,500. Both districts received similar amounts in 2018.
The local grants are part of $460-thousand awarded statewide. They are financed by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
