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Public libraries are cornerstones of the community. Working with local businesses, public libraries have the potential to spur economic development and job creation. The Illinois State Library (ISL) is offering public libraries the opportunity to receive information resources, equipment, and hardware that will help local businesses create new economic growth possibilities.

Thanks to a grant from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the State Library will provide qualifying public libraries with a laptop computer, a projector and portable screen, a camcorder, a DVD player, and business software to be available for check out by community businesses. Businesses can use this equipment for workshops, seminars and other initiatives aimed at spurring local economic development. Participating libraries commit to attending one orientation workshop, a Webinar and devoting efforts to reach out to their local business community. No matching funds are required.

Participants will be selected on the basis of the local unemployment rate, poverty level, proximity to a Small Business Development Center (SBDC), SCORE or other business organization, and statewide geographic distribution.

The State Library will retain ownership of the equipment, business software and training DVDs. The items will be placed on the ISL's inventory and put out on long-term loan to the participating public libraries.

Participating Libraries