Senator Klein Announces $12,847 Grant For Pelham Public Library

PELHAM, NY –The Town of Pelham Public Library has been awarded $12,847 in public library construction grant funds, State Senator Jeff Klein announced.

The funds will enable the library to install new energy efficient lighting. Replacing the present pendant-style lighting will not only save money in lower energy costs, it will also address the concerns that the old lighting was too dim for public's needs.

“Whether its taking out a book, logging onto their computers, or using their resources to search for a job, libraries – more than ever – are the center of our communities,” Senator Klein said. “This much needed funding will help improve and increase the energy efficiency of the building so that Pelham residents can enjoy their library for years to come.”

This grant funded through the $14 million in capital funds for public library construction provided in the 2010-2011 State Budget.

The Town of Pelham Public Library serves the information, educational, and cultural needs of the residents of the Town of Pelham, which comprises the Villages of Pelham and Pelham Manor in southern Westchester County. In addition to the library’s holdings of nearly 43,000 books, audio and video recordings, and other materials, in 2010 they also hosted more than 275 programs for children and adults.

Pelham Town Supervisor Joe Solimine stated “Upgrading their lighting system with more energy efficient lights will save the town money and provide a better atmosphere for library patrons. I wanted to thank New York State Public Libraries and State Senator Jeff Klein for providing this grant to the Pelham Library”

Library Director Patricia Perito added: “I'm delighted the $14 million dollar Public Library Construction Program remained in the state budget! I'm excited to start our lighting project which will enable us to better serve our users.”

A recent survey showed a documented need for public library construction and renovation projects totaling more than $2.53 billion. Since more than 40% of the over 1,000 public library buildings in communities across New York are over 60 years old and another 30% are more than three decades old, New York’s public libraries are in urgent need of renovation and upgrading. Many of New York’s local public libraries are unable to accommodate users with disabilities, are energy inefficient, cannot provide Internet and computer and other electronic technologies to users because of outdated and inadequate electrical wiring, and do not have sufficient space to house the library’s expanding collection, address the need for adequate meeting room, or provide for public access computers.

Project activities and expenditures eligible for grants from the $14 million Public Library Construction Grant Program include financing construction of new library buildings, construction of additions to existing buildings, and the renovation and/or rehabilitation of existing space, including roof replacement, purchase and installation of alternative energy resources and new HVAC systems, windows, doors, and lighting systems, electrical upgrades, and construction of new or replacement of old walkways and parking lots, among other things.

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