New York State Senator José M. Serrano Announces Additional Funding for Local Libraries

[Bronx, NY] - Senator José M. Serrano (D-Bronx/Manhattan) joined representatives from the New York Public Library yesterday to announce an additional $100,000 in funding for libraries in the 29th Senate District, secured through this year’s state budget, during an event held at High Bridge Library in the Bronx. 

The funds will be equally distributed across the Aguilar, High Bridge and Mott Haven branches, marking a significant investment in community resources by bolstering library programs and services.  

The Senator was joined by High Bridge Library Manager, Cristian Reinosomontes, Mott Haven Library Manager, Anais Reyes, and Associate Director for Neighborhood Libraries, Sumie Ota, as representatives of the New York Public Library to celebrate this important announcement. Library staff explained how this funding would be useful to grow and improve the libraries’ current programming.

"We are incredibly grateful and honored that Senator José Serrano has given generous funding for High Bridge, Mott Haven, and Aguilar libraries today. The funding will support our vital services, programs, and hours of operations, and as a result enable The New York Public Library’s branches in the Bronx to continue to serve our patrons," Brian Bannon, Merryl and James Tisch Director of the New York Public Library, said. "We can't thank Senator Serrano enough for his continued recognition of the importance of libraries for all New Yorkers."

Prior to the presentation, local children gathered for a story time led by Senator Serrano, where they enjoyed a bilingual counting book. The visit to the library was a great opportunity for the Senator to speak with NYPL staff about the wide range of programming that will be supported through this operational funding.

“I am thrilled that the three New York Public Library branches within my district are receiving this critical funding. Libraries are cornerstones of our community, providing invaluable resources and diverse programs for all ages. It is vital that we continue to invest in and support our local public libraries to ensure that their resources and programs remain available for all to enjoy.” said Senator Serrano

Contact: Sommer Bedford, sbedford@nysenate.gov