More than $227,000 is coming to Springfield and Decatur to boost four local literacy programs, thanks to support from State Senator Doris Turner. Turner says libraries are essential community hubs and that investing in them empowers residents. The funding is part of a $28 million statewide grant for regional library systems to improve online catalogs, daily operations, interlibrary loans, and services for the visually impaired. Locally, Baby TALK, Richland Community College, Fishes & Loaves Outreach Ministries, and Lincoln Land Community College will use the grants to help adults and families improve reading, writing, math, and English skills.