CARLINVILLE, Ill. – Carlinville Public Library is the 2026 Community Partner Award winner for University of Illinois Extension in Macoupin County. For the past five years, the library has been a valued Extension partner, supporting youth programming and serving as a host site for Extension programs. Together, the library and Extension have provided meaningful learning opportunities for all ages through 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 bring innovative ideas, high-quality programming, and a welcoming attitude to every partnership.”
University of Illinois Extension serving Christian, Jersey, Macoupin, and Montgomery counties are exceptionally proud to provide this award to Carlinville Public Library and their staff in recognition and gratitude for their service to Extension. “Illinois Extension relies on strong community partnerships in all aspects of our work. 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,” said Sara Marten, Extension county director.
This award is sponsored by the Extension Council of University of Illinois Extension, serving Christian, Jersey, Macoupin, and Montgomery counties. The council recognizes a community partner throughout our four counties each year. Extension Council is a volunteer board that serves in an advisory role cooperating with Extension staff in planning, promoting, developing, implementing, evaluating, and financing an Extension program designed to meet the needs, interests, and resources of the local communities.
University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state's land-grant institution. Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 500 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through five program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, health and community wellness, and natural resources, environment, and energy.