On the 21st: We talked with gun training instructors and owners about the recent wave of teachers acquiring concealed carry permits in the wake of shooting incidents in recent years. Plus, Illinois infrastructure, and what lies down the road for future construction and maintenence. And, a recent study shows that lesbian, bisexual and questioning women are at a higher risk for diabetes and obesity later in life. Then, we discussed what one Illinois library is doing to eliminate the fines associated with forgetting to return your book, and how this came to be.

An event this weekend will explore issues of race and representation at the University of Illinois’ School of Information Science. Alumni of color from the I-School will share their personal experiences with racism, both as students and professionals.

Last year, the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) spent $276 on books for its educational programming across 28 correctional facilities, according to data obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request. In the early 2000s, however, the state prison system spent roughly $750,000 each year on books. The dramatic decrease in funding stands in contrast to research that shows educational programming for inmates can significantly impact recidivism rates. Prison librarians, academics and a former Illinois inmate all agree that prison libraries play an important role in that work. 

Foundations for the public libraries in Champaign and Urbana are getting more sophisticated in seeking donations to help the libraries with special projects from building maintenance to cultural programs.