Osceola and Lowry City, MO, Aug 17, 2010 -- In a ceremony on August 17, 2010, Anita J. (Janie) Dunning, State Director, USDA Rural Development, presented two Certificates of Appreciation to the St. Clair County Library at Osceola and Lowry City.

The certificates were presented in recognition of the St. Clair County Library’s efforts to stimulate the economy by utilizing grant funds totaling $59,500 from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). These USDA Rural Development ARRA funds were in the form of Community Facility Grants for both locations and will finance the purchase of library technology equipment. The St. Clair County Library will contribute $30,500 toward the total cost of $90,000.

“This is a great partnership effort when everyone works together for a common goal of meeting the needs of a community,” said Dunning. “This project mirrors USDA Rural Development’s mission and President Obama’s initiative of being committed to the future of rural communities. I want to personally thank everyone that has worked together to make this project a reality. I am pleased that these communities will benefit by having well equipped libraries.”

Anita J. Dunning added, “Appreciation is also extended to our federal elected officials for supporting the USDA Rural Development programs. They have been strong proponents for the necessary funding for essential services for rural Missourians.”

Anyone seeking more information about USDA Rural Development programs may visit the homepage at http://www.rurdev.gov/mo or by contacting the Clinton Area Office at 1306 North 2^nd Street, Clinton, MO 64735 or by calling (660)885-5567 ext 5.

“USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.” To file a complaint of discrimination write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD).