Wisconsin public schools to receive $65M in funding for libraries

WISCONSIN (CBS 58) -- Wisconsin public schools are getting a $65 million boost in funding for 2024. 

The money, coming from the Common School Fund, will be going towards public school libraries across the state. 

Library staff will be able to expand opportunities for their students by purchasing new books, technology and education materials. 

"I think what's so important about this funding is the flexibility it provides these school librarians and media specialists to best fit what their communities need, because what Superior might need is very different from Eau Claire, La Cross, Green Bay or Stevens Point could need," said Sarah Godlewski, secretary of state. 

The distribution from the Common School Fund is a 25% increase from last year, over $13 million more than 2023, setting a new record -- and that money can go a long way.

For more than 90% of Wisconsin schools, these dollars are the only funds received by school libraries.