Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White has announced more than $15 million in funding to libraries statewide through the Illinois Public Library Per Capita and Equalization Aid grants.

“This funding will help further educational programs and services that make our libraries a fixture within the community,” State Senator Laura Murphy (D-Des Plaines) said. “I am excited to see how our neighborhoods will benefit from this increased funding.”

Per Capita grants help fund library expenses such as materials, personnel, equipment, telecommunications and technology. Equalization Aid grants help qualifying public libraries with a low library tax base ensure a minimum level of funding for library services.

Libraries in Murphy’s district will receive more than $305,000 in funding under the Per Capita grant. The following libraries are receiving funds:

Applications for these grants are due Jan. 15. For more information, visit http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/library/grants/plpc_equalization.html.