HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Office of Commonwealth Libraries (OCL) has announced the recipients of the Excellent and Equitable Youth Services Local Library Grants, aimed at enriching the literary resources available to young learners across the state. Among the 13 libraries awarded this prestigious grant is the Atglen Public Library in Chester County, which will receive $5,000 to expand its collection of children’s and youth fiction and non-fiction books.
This initiative, supported by federal funds from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services and administered by the PDE, is designed to empower local libraries, particularly those serving marginalized communities, by enabling them to build inclusive and diverse book collections. “Books have the power to ignite young minds and shape future leaders,” stated Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid N. Mumin. “This initiative reflects our commitment to ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has access to a diverse range of stories and information.”
The Atglen Public Library’s selection highlights its ongoing efforts to provide equitable access to educational resources for Chester County’s youth. The grant will not only enhance the library’s offerings but also promote a lifelong love of reading and learning within the community.
The other beneficiaries of this grant include:
- Abington School District in Montgomery County,
- Albion Area Public Library in Erie County,
- Bosler Memorial Library in Cumberland County,
- Bucks County Free Library in Bucks County,
- Evans City Public Library in Butler County,
- Everett Free Library in Bedford County,
- Genesee Area Library in Potter County,
- Lehighton Area Memorial Library in Carbon County,
- Parkland Community Library in Lehigh County,
- Ralpho Township Public Library in Northumberland County,
- Saint Marys Area School District in Elk County, and
- Sayre Public Library in Bradford County.
This collective investment in Pennsylvania’s libraries exemplifies the state’s efforts to foster educational equity and opportunity for its youngest residents.
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