HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Office of Commonwealth Libraries (OCL) announced that 13 libraries across Pennsylvania have been awarded Excellent and Equitable Youth Services Local Library Grants to help libraries serve their youngest learners. With these $5,000 grants, the libraries can purchase fiction and non-fiction books for children and youth.

Local libraries to receive the grants are the Genesee Area Library in Potter County and St. Marys Area School District in Elk County.

The grants, which are federally funded through the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services and administered by PDE, help libraries – especially those serving marginalized populations – build inclusive collections for youth.

“Books have the power to ignite young minds and shape future leaders. This initiative reflects our commitment to ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has access to a diverse range of stories and information. By investing in these local libraries, we are not only expanding their collections but also fostering a love of reading and learning that will benefit our communities for generations to come,” said Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid N. Mumin.