ATMORE, Ala. — The Atmore Public Library received a $2,000 check from state Rep. Alan Baker on Aug. 10, funding that library officials say will go toward meeting the facility’s ongoing needs.
The money comes from Baker’s discretionary Education and Community Services Grant fund, a pool of money state lawmakers can direct toward local schools, libraries and community organizations within their districts. Baker presented the check in person, and was photographed alongside Atmore Public Library Director Hope Lassiter.
Discretionary grants like this one are a common way Alabama legislators support local institutions between larger state budget allocations, allowing libraries, civic groups and schools to cover costs that might otherwise go unfunded. Public libraries frequently rely on a mix of state, local and grant funding to maintain collections, technology and community programming.
Library officials did not specify exactly how the funds will be spent, saying only that the money would go toward the library’s needs.