SPRINGFIELD, IL - Several public school libraries in southern Illinois are receiving a share of $1.4 million in grants from Secretary of State Jesse White, who also serves as the state librarian. 
 
Some area districts getting funds are: Anna-Jonesboro $735.50, Cairo $735.50, Carbondale (4 schools) $3,269.50, DuQuoin $1,084.50, Goreville $735.50, Herrin $1,770.00, Johnston City $846.75, Marion (2 schools) 3,543.50, Massac Co. $1,586.25, Pope County $735.50, Ullin $735.50, Vienna $735.50, West Frankfort $735.50.
 
White says nearly 1.7 million students in 642 school districts will be affected by the grants, which were awarded based on a formula of .75 cents per student with a minimum gift of $735.
 
The School District Library Grant Program funds will pay for such things as library materials to support reading for academics and enjoyment; subscriptions to electronic resources and improved technology to support student research.
 
White, a former schoolteacher, says libraries are important to help children learn and prepare for the future. He says studies show pupils in schools with strong library programs perform better scholastically.