In a significant move to bolster public infrastructure and safety, Governor Pritzker signed SB 1550, now P.A. 104-0108, into law on August 1, 2025. This legislation amends the Illinois Library System Act to expand and enhance the state’s grant program for libraries across Illinois.

This Legislation introduces several key changes to how state grants are distributed to libraries:

1. Expanded Grant Eligibility – Grants are now available not only to public libraries and library systems, but specifically to library systems and public libraries that are members of a system. This change promotes more equitable access to funding across the state.

2. Security Enhancements – In response to rising threats against libraries and librarians, this legislation authorizes security-focused grants. Libraries can now apply for funding to install security and protective infrastructure.

This new law will go into effect on January 1, 2026. It reflects a commitment to enhancing library infrastructure and safety and addresses the ongoing concerns about the need for modernized facilities and secure environments for residents.

For more information about this article, please contact Tressler attorney Erik Peck at epeck@tresslerllp.com.

About the Author

Erik R. Peck concentrates his practice primarily on the representation of municipalities, municipal boards and committees, townships, and other special districts serving as general counsel. In representing various municipal bodies, he has had extensive experience in planning and zoning matters as well as fire and police commission matters, hiring, discipline, PSEBA, PEDA, FLSA, and other public safety matters. With a local government law practice that extends over 25 years, Erik has a considerable depth of knowledge in a broad array of matters such as intergovernmental agreements, real estate, land use and zoning, economic development, capital development and construction, annexation, boundary disputes and board governance, as well as drafting and negotiating leases, licenses, easements, and intergovernmental agreements.  He regularly furnishes advice to his clients on drafting and negotiating procurement contracts, Open Meetings Act (OMA), Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), records retention, finance, appropriations, tax levies, election issues, tax obligations, ethics, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), and other employment issues.  Click here to read Erik’s full attorney bio.