Libraries Receive Construction Grants

ALBANY, 03/04/09 -- Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) announced today that local community libraries in the 51st senatorial district have been awarded $421,032 in public library construction grant funds.

"Our libraries are vital to our communities, especially in these tough economic times" Seward said. "Local libraries are being counted on for so much more these days. Traditional book lending still accounts for a high volume of traffic, but more and more people are visiting libraries for other needs.”

Public library construction grants help local libraries and library systems to build new libraries, create additions, update electrical wiring to accommodate computer technology, meet standards of energy efficiency, renovate facilities to provide full accessibility to library users with disabilities, and provide meeting rooms to accommodate community needs.

“Internet use has skyrocketed at libraries as many people search for jobs, look up their family tree, or strive for self improvement. In many areas libraries are the community centers, and hubs for countless civic activities,” Seward added.

“Assisting libraries with state funds takes the burden off local taxpayers, while ensuring communities receive much needed services,” Seward concluded.

The grant funds are from $14 million in capital funds for public library construction provided in the 2008 state budget. The ongoing annual funding from New York State for public library construction is only $800,000. The announced grants are separate from those under the ongoing annual appropriation.

Greene
  Mid-Hudson Library System
 Haines Falls Free Library, Tannersville
  $100,000.00
 Replacement of roof, doors, and windows in newly purchased building.
   
Otsego
 Four County Library System
 Richfield Springs Public Library, Richfield Springs
  $50,166.00
 Construction of 2nd floor addition to existing building.
   
Herkimer
 Mid-York Library System
 Ilion Free Public Library, Ilion
  $118,917.00
 Installation of new HVAC system and new electrical; reconstruction of existing space to create new circulation/reference area and new meeting room.
   
Cortland
 Finger Lakes Library System
 Peck Memorial Library, Marathon
  $23,094.00
 Purchase of shelving for newly reconstructed space.
   
Phillips Free Library, Homer
  $48,065.00
 Reconstruction of front stone steps; replacement of sidewalk leading to front steps; installation of drainage along western front of building; installation of lighting and book drop on exterior south side of building.
   
Otsego
 Four County Library System
 Harris Memorial Library, Otego
  $14,099.00
 Replacement of roof; reconstruction of front porch.
   
Schoharie
 Mohawk Valley Library System
 Sharon Springs Free Library, Sharon Springs
  $24,743.00
 Replacement of roof.
   
The Community Library (Cobleskill)
  Cobleskill
  $41,948.00
 Replacement of roof over rear section of library building.