January 20, 2009

Congratulations President Barack Obama!

At Homer Township Library many of us watched and listened to the historic moment when our 44th president of the United States of America was sworn in. During this exciting moment in time I offer a brief message to our newly elected President:

Dear President Obama:
You have stated, "More than a building that houses books and data, the library represents a window to a larger world, the place where we've always come to discover big ideas and profound concepts that help move the American story forward..." Well stated!

As a librarian I think you get "us." I look forward to a "Yes we can" presidency and your full support of libraries, which you refer to as the "sanctuaries of learning." As a public library director who strives to make an ongoing difference in my community your words touch my heart.

Congratulations to you on this most exciting, memorable, and historic day!

Sheree Kozel-La Ha

January 12, 2009

2009 = More for You @ Your Library!

Happy New Year!
2009 has started with a bang and we are pleased to announce our two newest grant awards of $75,000.

HOMER LIBRARY IS A DESTINATION STATION
"Destination Station" is a technology specific grant that allows the library to upgrade and add technical equipment, including new computers for both children and adults. Ten new Kids Connect computers, each loaded with thirty educational programs, will be added, as will "family stations, where an adult can work side by side with a child at separate computers. Funding also provides new internet room computers and adds word processing computers throughout the public areas of the library. This is a Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant, awarded by the Illinois State Library with federal funding provided through the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). We believe you will enjoy the added convenience of new equipment and software!

TEEN SCENE & MORE
The second award is funded by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). We extend our appreciation to State Representative Renee Kosel for her assistance with this grant opportunity. This award will allow us to upgrade areas of the library including adding a new Teen Scene area where students and library youth can do homework and socialize with friends.

Grant awards provide needed funding to our tax-capped library budget. Successful grants allow us to offer some really neat things at Homer Library and expand the way we can serve you well. Both projects will enrich your library experience and add convenient new areas for your use. We know you will find more value than ever before at Homer Library!