Abilene and Herington libraries each awarded $10,000 from Carnegie Corp.

As two of hundreds of libraries across the U.S., the Abilene Public Library and Herington Public Library will receive $10,000 each.

The awards, from the Carnegie Corporation of New York, are part of Carnegie Libraries 250, an initiative celebrating America’s 250th birthday in 2026.

“The Herington Public Library is thrilled to receive this gift and use it to enhance library services to our patrons and community,” said Herington Public Library Director Shelly Wirtz.

The two libraries will receive the money in January 2026.

Moulton said the Abilene library has not decided how they will spend the money. The libraries may use the funds however they wish to celebrate the 250th anniversary, further their mission, and benefit their community, according to a release from the Carnegie Corporatio