Senator Farley Announces Local Libraries Awarded Construction Grants

A longtime library advocate, State Senator Hugh T. Farley (R, C, I - Schenectady) is pleased to announce seven libraries and library systems in his district were recently awarded public library construction funds that will allow them to improve their facilities.

"Libraries are a place of lifelong learning that are available to everyone," Senator Farley said. "These funds will help improve the buildings that house vital information and allow organizations to keep up with the demands of their users -- whether it be installing climate control systems so books do not detiorate, improving entrances for people with disabilities, or upgrading wiring for Internet and computer needs."

The grant funds are from $14 million in capital funds that were allocated in the 2010 State Budget for public library construction.

Below are the awardees in Senator Farley’s District, broken out by county.

Fulton County

* Gloversville Public Library was awarded $28,983 to install new historically appropriate pendant lighting, restore interior masonry, and assess and restore exterior masonry.

* Northville Public Library was awarded $18,720 for new exterior siding and insulation, and to improve veneer and install shutters.

Montgomery County

* Fort Hunter Free Library was awarded $8,857 to renovate space in the new building, including improving the heat and air systems and replacing ceilings, the entryway roof, sidewalk, carpet, computers and cabling, and chairs.

* Frothingham Free Library was awarded $4,900 to help address the deterioration of the roof that is past useful life.

Saratoga County

* Saratoga Springs Public Library was awarded $234,903 to computerize check-out and check-in technology, and to reconfigure space in the main level for disability access.

* Southern Adirondack Library System was awarded $10,725 for HVAC replacement.

Schenectady County

* Schenectady County Public Library was awarded $387,500 to create an 8,000 to 14,000 square foot addition that includes a children's room and community space that is also ADA compliant and energy efficient.

New York’s public libraries are in urgent need of renovation and upgrading. More than 40 percent of the over 1,000 public library buildings in communities across New York are over 60 years old.