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. 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. Applications for the public library security grants must be submitted by April 15, 2026. 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.