Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Readers are leaders. Gwen Harris (pictured), director of Lincoln Library – Springfield’s public library – is well aware.

“I am meeting these young people, and they are saying, if it weren’t for the library and story time, I wouldn’t be where I am now.”

Harrison accepted a $1 million federal grant to remake the youth services area at the public library, a move that some say could deter kids from being involved in gun violence.

“Libraries are safe havens,” Harrison said, repeating the phrase again. “Our young people need a place to go to be free, to be safe, to dream big. We provide all of the resources necessary to undergird and support our young people.”