Senator Sanders Proud to Announce $494,548 for Baisley Park Community Library

Senator James Sanders Jr. (D-Rochdale Village) is proud to announce the Baisley Park Community Library, a branch of the Queens Borough Public Library, will be awarded $494,548 for renovations.
 
The State Education Department has recently released its list of awardees for the 2015-2016 fiscal year's public library construction program. This program was funded through an appropriation of $14 million in capital funds by the legislature and the governor in last year's state budget. Baisley Park Community Library on 117-11 Sutphin Boulevard in Jamaica has been granted almost a half million dollars to renovate its first floor interior and public restrooms for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and reconfigure its meeting room.
 
"This is something we've been fighting for," said Sanders. "The library is a pillar of our community and it is essential we keep it up to date. These funds will ensure all our neighbors, including those with disabilities, can enjoy the library and all it has to offer."
 
Dennis Walcott, president and CEO of Queens Library, agreed. "Safe, inviting, inspiring public library spaces are critical to how effectively we are able to fulfill our educational and cultural mission," he stated. "Governor Cuomo and the New York State Legislature are to be commended for their leadership in providing funds toward the renovation."
 
The enacted budget for 2016-2017 appropriated $19 million for this program, an increase of $5 million from last year. Funds will be distributed in the spring of 2017.