Hancock Public Schools Library Receives $150,000 Grant from the Michigan Department of Education

The Hancock Public Schools Library has received a 150,000 dollar grant from the Michigan Department of e\Education. This is the same grant program Hancock’s library was awarded about a year ago, when it received 212,000 dollars. Which allowed them to increase reading options, and send home preloaded kindle e-books with 6^th graders. Similar to last year, the Hancock Library once again received more than what they applied for. Having applied for 75,000 dollars.

“We just finished spending that in June, as of June 1st. And we applied for the next round of it, and we were awarded 150,000 dollars. And I am working on putting together a budget of what we are going to spend it on. We have about three or four big ideas that will comprise most of the funds.” – Boni Ashburn, Librarian, Hancock Public Schools Library

Last year’s grant was used to improved the space’s shelving units, purchase new furniture, develop a young readers area, and introduce new programs. Portage Lake District Library, Library Director, Katrina Linde-Moriarty said that they are excited to work with the Hancock Public Schools Library on what the new funds will go toward.

“I want to applaud both Boni and the school district on the financial maneuverability with that. I think we are much better situated going into this next round. And the fact that we earned it again, it’s a testament to the connection there.” – Katrina Linde-Moriarty, Library Director, Portage Lake District Library

Hancock’s library has not announced what the newest funds will go toward yet. Library leadership did post to their facebook page, thanks toward former Superintendent Steve Patchin for his previous help with the granting process, and the Michigan Department of Education for its continued support of the local Hancock library.