Griffo announces State Construction Grants for public libraries

State Senator Joseph Griffo announced today several public libraries throughout his district are receiving library construction grant funds. The state funding comes from $14 million in capital funds approved for public library construction projects in last year’s State Budget.

“Our public libraries are more than just places for people to find books. Libraries are also community centers that offer learning programs for children, quiet places for people to do work or read the news, and computers or internet access for those who may not have their own capabilities at home. Libraries play a very important role in our neighborhoods, but smaller communities cannot always afford the necessary upgrades to these buildings, so it is important that New York State continues to assist libraries in providing the most accessible and comfortable setting possible to meet the public’s needs,” said Senator Griffo, R-Rome.    

The following are grants awarded to libraries in Senator Griffo's district:

• Barneveld Free Library: $9,464 for an energy retrofit, including insulation and replacement of the furnace
   
• Clayville Library: $9,169 to replace front steps and landing for safer access to the building
   
• Dunham Public Library, Whitesboro: $24,990 for parking lot preparation work
   
• Mid-York Library System, Utica: $17,962 to complete an off-street parking project
   
• Utica Public Library: $24,990 to upgrade two restrooms
   
• Massena Public Library: $35,401 to replace an inefficient, outdated HVAC system
   
• Norwood Public Library: $10,964 to build new space for programming and community events
   

Also, Griffo said in the 2016-2017 State Budget, $19 million was approved for the library construction projects that will be announced in the spring of 2017.

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