Senator Steve Saland Joined By Library Officials To Announce $110,800 For Columbia County Libraries

Senator Steve Saland (R-C Poughkeepsie), Chairman of the New York State Senate Education Committee, the New York Library Association and directors from the Mid-Hudson Library System joined Senator Saland to announce funds the Senator secured for technology and capital improvements for Columbia County libraries.

Senator Saland was able to help local libraries achieve their technology goals by delivering $110,800 to 11 libraries throughout Columbia County. The grants are as follows:

"The New York Library Association greatly appreciates Senator Saland's support for libraries at the state and local level. During the State Budget process he played a key role in obtaining a nearly $20 million increase in state aid for library service across New York and now he has provided another significant package of aid to the public libraries in his district. Senator Saland is a true friend of the library community in New York," said Michael J. Borges, Executive Director of the New York Library Association.

"In addition to our homes and schools, libraries provide a strong foundation for learning for our communities," said Senator Steve Saland. "As Chairman of the Senate Education Committee, I am extremely pleased to have led the fight to increase funding to libraries and as a result, helped secure $2,265,332 in the 2006-07 state budget for the Mid-Hudson Public Library System and an additional $110,800 for technology and capital improvements for local libraries. For many years to come, students and adults who utilize the 11 libraries in Columbia County will reap the benefits from these centers of lifelong learning," said Senator Saland.