The Sparta library was one of 17 in the state that was awarded a Project Next Generation Grant. The Sparta library will use the $12,500 in grant funds for equipment and supplies to participate in the Illinois Veteran’s History Project. Local students with supervision by their Project Next Generation mentors, will interview and video record the stories of Illinois war veterans and civilians , such as flight instructors and medical personnel, who served the state and country during the war. The library plans to begin recording sessions in February and we encourage all veterans to call the library at 443-5014 for more information. The PNG grant is provided by the Illinois State Library, a division of the office of Secretary of State, using federal LSTA funding, to empower students to succeed academically and eventually as independent, contributing members of society. In service of this mission, the PNG program offers grant funding to libraries for establishing after-school training programs that not only provide access to computers, software and various technology devices, but also hire mentors who are crucial to helping students develop self-confidence and pride in their newly acquired skills.