"These grant dollars will go a long way toward protecting the records stored in our local archives," Rep. Jimmy Eldridge said. "I encourage people who want to learn more about our local history to visit the archives and see the records that are available there."

"It is very important that these types of records are preserved for future generations," Secretary of State Tre Hargett said. "I commend Madison County officials for applying for this grant. I'm sure it will be put to good use."

Since 1999, the Secretary of State's office has made $50,000 available each year to support archive improvement projects at about 10 to 15 locations around the state. The grant funds are used to buy supplies, equipment or furnishings used to help salvage, restore, and preserve permanent government records and to make those records more accessible to the public.