Three libraries and two schools in State Senator Bill Cunningham’s district have been awarded grants from the Illinois State Library to buy fiction and nonfiction books.

“This extra money to buy books and other educational materials will greatly benefit members of our community and provide resources the libraries otherwise wouldn’t have,” Cunningham said.

The “Back to Books” program is an initiative from Secretary of State Jessie White’s office funded by the Federal Institute of Museum and Library Services and the state’s library funds.

The eligible materials include: books, large print books, audio books, graphic novels and educational CDs or DVDs. One hundred percent of the grant funds must be spent on materials. 

The list of 18th District libraries and schools that received grants includes:

Chicago Ridge               Chicago Ridge Public Library           $5,000.00
Oak Lawn                     Community High School #218          $5,000.00
Evergreen Park             Evergreen Park Public Library           $5,000.00
Chicago                         Marist High School                         $4992.00
Oak Lawn                     Oak Lawn Public Library                  $5,000.00
Orland Park                  Orland Park Public Library                $3,373.00