Senator Defrancisco Announces Mini-Grants for Onondaga County Library Programming Projects

Senator John A. DeFrancisco announced on September 18 2012, that he secured $90,000 dollars in state funds to be awarded to individual libraries in Onondaga County in system-wide programs and mini-grants over the next two years. The grants are intended to serve the uses of 32 public libraries in Onondaga County and 19 boards.

Mini-grants will be awarded to individual libraries for cultural programming endeavors, and will fund activities that the library staff would like to offer but could otherwise not fund. The program encourages community/library collaboration and cultural immersion in Onondaga County libraries. The grants will be used for expenses including fees for performers and presenters, innovative or enhanced library service, associated costs such as marketing, display items and materials, and equipment to support the programs. 

“I am pleased to announce the start of the distribution of the Library Cultural Programming Grants. Our libraries are a valuable resource and we should do all that we can to maintain and improve upon them,” said Senator DeFrancisco. “This grant will allow libraries in Onondaga County to identify cultural organizations and work with other community partners as they see best suited for programming in our libraries.” 

$45,000 is allotted each year, over the next two years, for libraries in Onondaga County. A portion of the allocation goes to mini-grants, with the remaining balance to system-wide programs. Libraries may join applications with other libraries to combine grant amounts to offer greater programming. 

“Thanks to Senator DeFrancisco, public libraries throughout Onondaga County will be able to enrich their communities by hosting cultural programs they would otherwise not be able to afford,” said Elizabeth Dailey, Executive Director of Onondaga County Public Library. Residents of all ages benefit from being able to experience art, live music, and performance in their own neighborhood. We’re very grateful for the Senator’s ongoing support of libraries and for his recognition of their importance in the life of our communities.”

Applications for the first year’s cycle are due January 1, 2013, with funds to be awarded February 1, 2013.