Senator Owen H. Johnson Announces Construction Grant Awards to Six Public Libraries Serving the 4th Senate District

    Senator Owen H. Johnson announces that construction grants have been awarded to six Public Libraries serving the 4th Senate District.   The funds will enable the libraries to complete many interior and exterior renovations and improvements.
 
    The grant funds are from $14 million in capital funds for public library construction provided in the 2010 State Budget.
 
The following libraries serving the 4th Senate District and receiving grant awards include:
•    Connetquot Public Library, $55,000
•    Copiague Memorial Public Library, $90,000
•    Deer Park Public Library, $55,000
•    Islip Public Library, $120,000
•    North Babylon Public Library, $55,00
•    Sayville Library, $10,000
 
    New York’s public libraries are in urgent need of renovation and upgrading.  A recent survey showed a documented need for public library construction and renovation projects totaling more than $2.53 billion.  More than 40% of the over 1,000 public library buildings in communities across New York are over 60 years old. Another 30% are more than three decades old.  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are energy inefficient, cannot provide Internet and computer and other electronic technologies to users because of outdated and inadequate electrical wiring, and do not have sufficient space to house the library’s expanding collection, address the need for adequate meeting room, or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.  New furniture, shelving and equipment, including computer equipment, can be purchased for new or newly reconfigured or renovated space. Renovations designed to provide accessibility for patrons with disabilities is a high priority.
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