Senator Martucci Announces State Aid for Library Construction

Nearly $330,000 to Libraries in the Ramapo-Catskill Library System

MIDDLETOWN, NY – Senator Mike Martucci (R,C,I-Hudson Valley/Catskills) announced today that the Ramapo-Catskill Library System has been allocated $328,594 in state aid for library construction funds. The funds will respectively enable the Gardiner Library, Goshen Public Library and Historical Society, Greenwood Lake Public Library, and Port Jervis Free Library to: make renovations to its mechanical room and put a new heating system in the bathrooms; purchase and install a 150 kW natural gas generator; replace and upgrade a deteriorated main entryway, relocate and rebuild a circulation area, and replace aging HVAC on the main floor; and remove and replace its furnace/boiler with all controls, piping and wiring.

The funds are from $14 million in capital funds for public library construction and broadband infrastructure projects provided in the FY 2020-2021 State Budget.

New York’s public libraries are in urgent need of renovation and upgrading. A recent survey showed a documented need for public library construction and renovation projects totaling more than $1.5 billion. Over half of the over 1,000 public library buildings in communities across New York are over 60 years old. Another one third are more than three decades old. Many of New York’s local public libraries are unable to accommodate users with disabilities, are energy inefficient, cannot provide Internet and computer and other electronic technologies to users because of outdated and inadequate electrical wiring. Many do not have sufficient space to house the library’s expanding collection, address the need for adequate meeting rooms, or provide for public access computers.

Project activities and expenditures eligible for funding from the State Aid for Library Construction Program include financing construction of new library buildings, construction of additions to existing buildings, and the renovation and/or rehabilitation of existing space. Projects may include roof replacement, purchase and installation of alternative energy resources, new HVAC systems, windows, doors, lighting systems, electrical upgrades, and construction of new or replacement of old walkways and parking lots. Broadband infrastructure projects are also eligible. New furniture, shelving and equipment, including computer equipment, may be purchased for new or newly reconfigured or renovated space. Renovations designed to provide accessibility for patrons with disabilities are a high priority.

In the FY 2021-2022 State Budget, the Legislature provided $34 million for projects that will be announced in Summer 2022. 

Mike Martucci serves as the Senator for New York's 42nd State Senate District which comprises all of Sullivan County and parts of Orange, Ulster, and Delaware counties. He is the ranking member of the Senate Standing Committees on Disabilities and Commerce, Economic Development And Small Business.

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