Project Next Generation is a mentoring program created by former Secretary of State Jesse White and administered through Illinois public libraries. Project mentors work with middle school and high school students as the participants develop skills to use various technologies, achieve success through project-based learning, and gain life skills such as effective communication, goal-setting, and conflict resolution.

“I am committed to improving the lives of at-risk youth in Illinois,” said White. “I established this innovative program when I first became Secretary of State to give students an opportunity to receive hands-on experience with the latest technological tools at their local library.”

Projects were awarded grants from the Illinois State Library using federal Library Services and Technology Act funds provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Grants are awarded to public libraries serving culturally diverse, low-income, and underserved populations.

As part of Project Next Generation, Marion Carnegie Library is dedicated to providing access to emerging technology. The library has a host of mentors who work to plan programs and events that will teach technology basics!

Funding for Project Next Generation is provided by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services to the Secretary of State/Illinois State Library under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA).