CHICAGO — State Senator Robert Peters recently announced that a total of $70,500 has been granted to Family Legacy Foundation’s Adult Volunteer Literacy Program.

“Promoting basic literacy skills is one of the most powerful ways we can uplift our community and prepare residents for success,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “This grant will directly impact those who need these resources most, providing them with the skills they need to thrive.”

The grants were awarded by Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias, who has awarded nearly $22 million for library services and $6 million for literacy programs throughout the state.

The goal of these grants is to enhance online catalogues, support day-to-day operations, expand interlibrary loan programs and equip vision-impaired individuals with narrations of newspaper content. The literacy grants are designed to promote basic reading, math, writing and English language skills.

“Equipping our libraries with the resources they need to increase services and expand offerings is essential to enhancing the accessibility of learning materials for all Illinois residents regardless of their geographic location, accessibility needs, income status or educational level,” Giannoulias said. “Meanwhile, increasing the state’s literacy level results in opportunities for individual success and makes communities stronger.”

A full list of grantees can be found here.