Secretary of State Jesse White, who also serves as the state librarian, announced the some $525,000 in Project Next Generation grants.
The program provides funding for libraries to offer after-school programs with access to computers, software and other technology. Mentors are hired to help students.
White says the program, which is aimed at helping at-risk students, also teaches life skills like goal setting, conflict resolution and effective communication. The grants are awarded to libraries that serve low-income and culturally diverse populations.
Among them are libraries in Carbondale, Chicago, Decatur, Jolie, Kankakee, Moline, Peoria and Sparta.
