Cny, Nny Libraries to Receive More Than $188,000 in Construction Grant Awards

Funding to be used to Increase Handicapped Accessibility, Improve Energy Efficiency

State Senator Patty Ritchie has announced several libraries in Jefferson, Oswego and St. Lawrence Counties will share more than $188,000 in public library construction funds to make much-needed upgrades, increase handicapped accessibility and improve energy efficiency. 

“The libraries throughout Central and Northern New York are such fantastic resources for taxpayers in our region; offering books, new technology and countless community activities,” said Senator Ritchie.

“As a member of the Senate Select Committee on Libraries, I’m thrilled that the state is recognizing the importance of our libraries and know that this funding will go a long way towards helping these centers of learning improve and better serve those who utilize them.”

Senator Ritchie has been a strong supporter of libraries, and last year, she was successful in securing more than $160,000 in special funding for libraries across Oswego, Jefferson and St. Lawrence Counties.

In the most recent State Budget, Senator Ritchie fought for significant support for local libraries; rejecting the Governor’s $4 million cut to library funding and working to increase funding for libraries across New York State by $1 million over last year’s budget.

There are more than 7,000 public libraries in New York State, including more than 50 public libraries in Oswego, Jefferson and St. Lawrence Counties—one of the largest concentrations of public libraries in any Senate district in the state.

Funding announced today is part of $14 million in capital funds for public library construction provided in the 2013 State Budget.  Locally, the following libraries will receive funding:

Jefferson County

Depauville Free Library: $108,441

Oswego County

Annie Porter Ainsworth Memorial Library: $17,760

Hannibal Free Library: $11,798

Mexico Public Library: $46,997

St. Lawrence County

Canton Free Library: $3,150