Senator Valesky Announces Construction Grant Awards to Onondaga County Libraries

SYRACUSE, NY – Senator David J. Valesky (D-Oneida) announced that four libraries in Onondaga County have been awarded public library construction grant funds. The capital funds, provided for in the 2014 State Budget, will enable the libraries to start or complete various projects that will improve services, safety and energy efficiency.

“Libraries across my district are continuously expanding their services across technological platforms and report increased patronage,” Senator Valesky said. “I am pleased to be able to support this grant funding to help libraries with building upgrades and improved services to meet community needs.”

Libraries receiving grants in Onondaga County are:

• Northern Onondaga Public Library, Brewerton--$4,575--Energy efficient rehabilitation of lobby/foyer and the addition of LED lighting fixtures.
• Northern Onondaga Public Library, North Syracuse--$14,775--Deteriorating brickwork on the building will be replaced and repointed.
• Onondaga County Public Library, Betts Branch Library--$234,301--Renovate interior floor plan to include a Teen Zone and to offer more effective service with a one-desk model and self-service options.
• Onondaga County Public Library, Salina St.--$134,481--Renovation to create “CNY Resources,” a secure reference space that includes environmentally controlled archival materials and other materials.

Senator Valesky has been a longtime supporter of libraries and serves as a member of the Senate Select Committee on Libraries.