SERINO CONTINUES COMMITMENT TO INVESTING IN QUALITY EDUCATION Announces Education Grants for Local Schools and Libraries

July 6, 2016

ALBANY—Senator Sue Serino (R, C, I—Hyde Park) announced today that she has successfully secured $500,000 in additional funds for local schools and libraries, an increase of $200,000 over last year.

“Our schools and libraries play a critical role in our community and every dollar counts when it comes to supplying them with the resources they need to provide high quality education to help move our community forward,” said Senator Serino. “Investing in our local schools and libraries has long remained one of my highest priorities. Coupled with the unprecedented increase in school aid and funding for our libraries secured in this year’s state budget, this additional grant money will help our schools and libraries invest even more in programs and resources that serve students and community members throughout our local area.”

While $340,000 was divided amongst school districts based on student population, an additional $160,000 was delivered directly to area public library districts. This year’s education grant awards total $200,000 more than what was appropriated to the Senate District last year and can be used to help schools and libraries address immediate funding needs.

The announcement comes on the heels of the release of a series of construction grants awarded to public libraries and public library systems across the state which are supported by the $14 million that was appropriated through the 2015 State Budget for the construction and renovation of our public libraries. Public libraries and library systems throughout Senate District 41 will receive over $130,000 through these construction grants.

“Our libraries play a distinct and invaluable role in our communities and often supplement not only our children’s education, but provide opportunities for continuing education and professional development for adults throughout our community. Investing in their success demonstrates a sincere commitment to our community and I am proud to be a strong supporter of our educational institutions.”

Construction Grants Awarded to public libraries and library systems in the 41^st Senate District include:

Library or Library System	Amount Awarded	Purpose
Mid-Hudson Library System	$51,596	Provide ADA-compliant restrooms and improve safety of 1st floor lobby area and access to restrooms.
Morton Memorial Library and Community House	$17,096	Rehabilitate and weatherproof windows, and update main library space and community room with energy-efficient lighting fixtures.
Alice Curtis Desmond and Hamilton Fish Library	$36,986	Renovate storage space into a secure Computer Lab.
Putnam Valley Free Library	$33,288	Replace pedestrian bridge which provides access to the Library.