Grants give libraries $1.35 million boost

SEATTLE – Library programs in Washington and Oregon will receive $1.35 million in grants this year from the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation.

The Seattle Times reports that those benefiting will include the Washington State Libraries, for development of a smartphone app that will provide service to rural patrons, and the Kitsap Regional Library Foundation for a teen library program.

Paul Allen and his sister, Jody Allen, started the foundation. Their father worked for the University of Washington library system, and their mother promoted reading throughout her life.