Two public libraries in north central Iowa will be the recipients of grant funding from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation to help support their summer programming.

According to a release from Dollar General, the literacy foundation awarded more than $13 million across 47 states in which Dollar General operates. Of that sum, roughly $77,000 was granted to Iowa libraries and nonprofits, including $2,500 for the Algona Public Library and $2,000 for the Clarion Public Library.

Clarion Public Library’s summer reading theme is “Find Your Voice!” according to library employee Alyssa Lloyd. Clarion will have several programs for all ages starting June 3 and running through July 29.

“Programs will be following a creative theme and will include art, crafts, music, games, STEM and more,” Lloyd said. “We will be using a majority of our grant to provide our patrons with quality programming by purchasing paints, journaling supplies, jewelry-crafting materials, a karaoke machine, board games, books and prizes.”

At the Algona library, the theme for the summer will also be “Find Your Voice!” and the Dollar General grant will be used for some of the supplies necessary to meet the goals of the library’s summer programming, said Sonya Harsha, Young Adult librarian.

“As a part of this grant, we’re also getting to be able to offer a teen internship for a short time,” she said.

The library’s goal is to develop a lifelong love of reading and learning, Harsha said. To facilitate that goal, the summer program will be about more than just reading — they’re planning other special events and activities, including bringing in the local ham radio operators group.

“We’re looking forward to a really fantastic summer,” Harsha said. “Lots and lots of interaction with the members of our community, reading and learning.”

Dollar General has stores in Fort Dodge, Webster City and other north central Iowa communities.