WPA also sponsored Illinois libraries

By Tom Emery

The Works Progress Administration was one of several hallmark programs of Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal, and put millions to work in building infrastructure.

The WPA also used creative means to employ others, such as artisans, who decorated post offices and other public buildings with their talents. Area post offices with WPA murals include Staunton and Gillespie.

A little-known aspect of the WPA was its support of libraries in rural areas, and dozens of Illinois communities, including in Macoupin County, with no library service took advantage. Many of those towns were inspired to...