Ortt Announces $47,340 in State Aid for Three Niagara County Libraries

Public Libraries in Niagara Falls, Lockport and Wilson Awarded Construction Grants

Senator Rob Ortt (R,C,I – North Tonawanda) today announced more than $47,000 in state funding has been awarded to three public libraries in Niagara County in need of upgrades. The money was secured in the 2014-15 State Budget as part of the $14 million capital funding program for construction and renovation of public libraries and public library systems in New York State.

The Niagara Falls Public Library LaSalle Branch, the Lockport Public Library and the Wilson Free Library are receiving a combined total of $47, 340 in state aid.

 “Libraries open the door to a multitude of opportunities and are the window to a child’s endless imagination,” said Senator Ortt. “Libraries allow us to enrich our lives and expand our education. It’s important to continue that enrichment by keeping our libraries updated and up to date with the latest technology. The public library construction grants will allow these libraries to thrive and continue to serve its community members for many more years.”

Lockport Public Library has been awarded $34,215 for phase II of its project to rehabilitate the front porch, steps and original front wall on the exterior of the building. Niagara Falls Public Library LaSalle Branch is set to receive $10,375 to install an energy efficient, custom made side door. And, Wilson Free Library has been awarded $2,750 for its energy efficient window replacement project.

State Aid for Library Construction help local libraries and library systems to build new libraries, construct additions to existing buildings, renovate and/or rehabilitate existing spaces, replace roofs, update electrical wiring, meet energy efficiency standards, and accommodate individuals with disabilities, among other things.

Many of New York’s public libraries are in need of renovation and upgrading. According to the New York State Library, approximately half of the more than 1,000 public library buildings in communities across the state are more than 60 years old. Another 30 percent are more than three decades old.