Carlinville library receives Community Partner Award

CARLINVILLE — Carlinville Public Library is the 2026 Community Partner Award winner for the University of Illinois Extension in Macoupin County.

For the past five years, the library has been a valued Extension partner. It has supported youth programming and serves as a host site for Extension programs. Together, the library and Extension have provided meaningful learning opportunities for all ages. These include STEAM nights, summer reading programs, terrarium workshops, themed events, and other hands-on educational activities.

“What sets the Carlinville Public Library apart is its cooperative spirit and genuine commitment to meeting community needs,” said Kate Harding, 4-H youth development program coordinator. “The staff consistently brings innovative ideas, high-quality programming, and a welcoming attitude to every partnership.”

The University of Illinois Extension of Christian, Jersey, Macoupin, and Montgomery counties is exceptionally proud to provide this award to Carlinville Public Library and its staff. The award is in recognition and gratitude for their service to Extension.

“Illinois Extension relies on strong community partnerships in all aspects of our work,” said Sara Marten, Extension county director. “From providing facilities or volunteers that assist with programming to offering financial support or exposure to new audiences, Extension staff and volunteers are grateful and appreciative of each of our community partners and the support they provide.”

The Extension Council of the University of Illinois Extension sponsors this award. This particular Council serves Christian, Jersey, Macoupin, and Montgomery counties. In addition, the council recognizes a community partner in each of its four counties each year.

The Extension Council is a volunteer board that serves in an advisory role. They cooperate with Extension staff in planning, promoting, developing, implementing, evaluating, and financing an Extension program. The main focus of each program is designed to meet the needs, interests, and resources of the local communities.

Cassie O'Connell, University of Illinois Extension

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Cassie O'Connell is the marketing and communications program coordinator for the University of Illinois Extension. O'Connell currently serves the Extension in Christian, Jersey, Macoupin and Montgomery counties.

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