Ranzenhofer Announces $60,000 Funding For Genesee County Libraries

State Senator Michael H. Ranzenhofer has announced $60,000 in state funding for public libraries throughout Genesee County.  

“I am pleased to report that I have been able to obtain state funding for six libraries in Genesee County.  Whether it is educational programs or information, our public libraries provide important services to residents.  This funding will help to enhance those services, while ensuring our local libraries continue to be invaluable assets to our community,” said Ranzenhofer.

The total funding will be distributed among Genesee County’s six public libraries:
•    Byron-Bergen Library, $10,000;
•    Corfu Free Library, $10,000;
•    Haxton Memorial Library; $10,000;
•    Hollwedel Memorial Library, $10,000;
•    Richmond Memorial Library, $10,000; and
•    Woodward Memorial Library, $10,000.

The funding will help Woodward Memorial Library renovate its Children’s Room in 2017.

“This funding will help us transform our Children’s Room, from a large, open space to an inviting atmosphere for all ages.  Now, children will be able to enjoy stacks of books, a puppet theater and a variety of experience-based learning materials to stimulate their young minds.  Senator Ranzenhofer has been so helpful in improving our services,” said Woodward Memorial Library Director Sue Border.

Haxton Memorial Library will use the funds for additional programming for children, teenagers and adults, as well as to purchase new technology.

“Due to Senator Ranzenhofer’s efforts, Haxton Memorial Library is able to provide more programming and purchase new computers and printers.  These funds help the library support the needs of our community, and all of our patrons will benefit,” said Haxton Memorial Library Director Kimberly Gibson.

Corfu Free Library will replace old computers and purchase new children's programming and furniture in the meeting area and teen area with the funding.

"The library is extremely pleased to receive $10,000 in state funding and would like to thank Senator Ranzenhofer for his continued support of local libraries.  We are appreciative of his efforts on behalf of libraries and the additional funding will allow the library to enhance our services to the community,” said Corfu Free Library Director Diana Reding.

Richmond Memorial Library will use the funding for capital improvements, computer technology upgrades and microfilming the Daily News.

“Richmond Memorial Library is so fortunate to be receiving this important funding from Senator Ranzenhofer.  His continued support is exactly why we recognized him as a friend of the library two years ago,” said Richmond Memorial Library Director Robert Conrad.

The state grant will allow Hollwedel Memorial Library to purchase new materials, including story time interactive kits, language software and STEM products.

“We are able to add new materials for our wonderful children’s room because of Senator Ranzenhofer’s continued support.  With a very limited budget, these funds are vital to provide current materials that will continue to enrich our patrons,” said Hollwedel Memorial Library Manager Suzanne Schauf.

Byron-Bergen Public Library will use the funds to purchase new technology and programming.

“The Byron-Bergen Public Library is excited to update our computer hardware and software, purchase a new laptop and two tablets and increase children’s programming.  Each one of these upgrades will be put to good use by our patrons,” said Byron-Bergen Public Library Manager Nancy Bailey.

The funding is part of the 2016-17 State Budget.  The funding is administered by the New York State Education Department.  

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