Senator Borrello Announces $890,283 in Library Funding

ALBANY – Senator George Borrello announced that 17 libraries across the 57th Senate District were awarded $890,283 in New York State Public Library Construction Grants to assist with renovation and construction projects.

“Our libraries are critical to the growth and success of our communities. Library budgets are stretched thin. This funding will help our libraries update their facilities and cut costs for local taxpayers,” Sen. Borrello said.

The awards are from $34 million in capital funds allocated by the Legislature for public library construction and renovations as part of the 2022-23 state budget.

“As information hubs, libraries are invaluable. During the pandemic, when schools and agencies closed down, libraries helped school students and adults with WiFi and provided information they needed to navigate the crisis,” Sen. Borrello said. “The volunteers and staff at our libraries provide wonderful programs and services people need and deserve. This funding will help modernize facilities and increase accessibility so libraries can better serve their patrons.”

Libraries in Sen. Borrello’s district awarded funding the New York State Library Construction Fund include:

• Ashville Free Library, $10,202 to renovate the library restroom.

• Blount Library in Franklinville, $5,560 to restore the library’s entrance, replace four windows and insulate beneath the children’s room.

• Delevan-Yorkshire Public Library, $55,701 to replace roof shingles, install a new book drop and install cement paths.

• Dunkirk Public Library, $123,345 to repair masonry and improve electrical, lighting and HVAC systems.

• Falconer Public Library, $14,042 to replace the front door for handicapped accessibility, install a book return slot and replace glass panels.

• Fluvanna Free Library, $75,788 to build a new ADA compliant vestibule/entrance.

• Hazeltine Public Library in Jamestown, $8,306 to install ADA compliant doors.

• James Prendergast Free Library in Jamestown, $35,044 to add LED lighting, acoustic panels and updated the library’s Markerspace.

• Olean Public Library, $36,485 to upgrade lights, exterior lighting and cameras to improve security.

• Patterson Library in Westfield, $125,690 to updated the library kitchen and waterproof marble and brick.

• Portville Free Library, $34,725 to replace two hot water heating boilers and equipment.

• Cordelia A. Greene Library in Castile, $30,308 to replace an unsafe broken lift and repair concrete.

• Perry Public Library, $32,418 to make doors ADA compliant and upgrade fire and burglary alarms.

• Town of Gainesville Public Library, $11,250 to replace the roof and add insulation.

• Belfast Public Library, $137,995 to demolish a children’s annex and site preparation for library expansion.

• Cuba Circulating Library, $137,993 to improve teen and children’s area, upgrade lighting, play area, water fountains, video game station and seating.

• Friendship Free Library, $15,431 to install new windows and increase energy efficiency.

“Libraries preserve our history and knowledge for the next generation. They help us dream, imagine and build a brighter tomorrow, are safe spaces, community centers and often the only place in our rural communities to provide internet access,” Sen. Borrello said. “Thank you to the New York State Education Department and the New York State Library for approving these library improvement awards.”

There are more than 1,000 public libraries in New York State. More than half of those libraries were built 60 or more years ago. Many are unable to accommodate users with disabilities, are energy inefficient and cannot provide internet and computer technology to patrons because of outdated electrical wiring.