"It is important that we make every effort to provide our students with the resources and tools needed to succeed in the classroom," Ross said. "The Literacy & School Libraries Program will provide libraries and teachers of the Pine Bluff-Dollarway Public School District with the necessary funding to increase literacy and online resources for our students."

"Reading is the foundation for success in the classroom," said Lincoln. "These federal funds will help put new books and advanced technology right at the fingertips of students who need to develop critical literacy skills. I applaud the Dollarway School District for investing in a literacy program that will give students the resources they need to reach their fullest academic potential."

"School libraries are a wonderful gateway to imagination and exploration," said Pryor. "However, students are more likely take advantage of these special places if materials and technological resources are up-to-date. This funding is great example of how federal, state and local officials can work together to improve the lives and literacy rates of students within the Dollarway school district."

The Dollarway School District will use the funds to support its Dollarway Library Network program through the purchase of updated literacy materials and advanced technology, collaboration with teachers and library staff, and extended access hours to library materials and media centers. The program aims to increase online library resources for at-risk students and to promote academic achievement in reading, science and social studies.

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