School District Library Grant Program
Eligibility
Illinois public school districts operating a school library are eligible. Applications must focus on improving library services, acquiring technology, or purchasing materials that expand student access to library resources. Priority is given to districts with limited library resources and high student need.
Program Goals
The Illinois School District Library Grant Program, administered by the Illinois State Library under the Secretary of State's office, provides annual grants to Illinois school districts for library improvements. Funded activities include technology upgrades, digital resource acquisition, materials purchases, and program development that improve student access to library services and digital information resources.
Read the GrantApplication and Distribution
Applications are submitted online through the Illinois State Library's grants portal by October 15 each year. Submit a program description, library improvement plan, and budget. Awards are announced in late fall or early winter.
Cycle Notes
School District Library Grants run on an annual cycle with an October 15 deadline. The 2026 deadline is October 15. Visit illinoisstatelibrary.org/libraries/grants for the current application and guidelines.
Grant Award Amount
Grant amounts vary by application and available funding. Typical awards to school districts range from $500 to $10,000 for library technology, materials, and program development.
Allowable Purchases
Forward Education Products for This Grant
These kits align to the learning outcomes this program funds.
- micro:bit Starter Kit — physical computing for library maker space and technology programs
- MicroChat AI Literacy Kit — AI and digital literacy resources for school library programs
- Coding for Good Kit — project-based CS curriculum for school library maker space initiatives
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the School District Library Grant in Illinois?
Illinois public school districts operating a school library are eligible. Priority is given to districts with limited resources and high student need.
How much funding is available through the School District Library Grant?
Awards typically range from $500 to $10,000 for library technology, materials, and program improvements.
Can School District Library Grant funds be used for STEM and coding tools?
Yes. School District Library Grant funds can support hands-on STEM materials, physical computing kits, and coding curriculum when they align to the program's stated goals. Document alignment to program objectives before purchasing.
How do Illinois schools apply for the School District Library Grant?
Apply online at illinoisstatelibrary.org by October 15, 2026. Submit a library improvement plan, program description, and budget.
How can Forward Education help with School District Library Grant funding?
Forward Education provides curriculum alignment documents, official pricing letters for grant budgets, and letters of support for Illinois schools. Our STEM kits are purpose-built for library maker space and CS programs. Contact us before submitting your application.
Need Help Writing Your Grant Application?
Forward Education works with schools and districts to build strong funding proposals. We can help you connect our tools to your grant requirements.
- Curriculum alignment documents — Illinois standards mapped to our kits
- Program quotes and pricing — classroom sets, bundles, and multi-site pricing
- Letters of support — documentation for grant applications
- Project ideas and scope-and-sequence — ready-to-use program outlines
Explore more Illinois funding resources
View all Illinois AI & CS grants →Download the Forward Education Grant Guide
Our grant guide helps educators find the right funding sources and build strong applications for STEM and coding programs.
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