State Senator Peter Oberacker announced that community libraries throughout the 51st senatorial district have been awarded a total of over $800,000 in public library construction grant funds. Among those receiving awards were the Bovina library and Margaretville’s Fairview library. Bovina was awarded $74,625 and the money will be used to finish basement walls, electrical and lighting; basement restroom and kitchen; replace kitchen sink appliances and install heating and air conditioning wall units for both floors.
Margaretville was awarded $60,333 and the money will be used to upgrades outdoor spaces to improve functionality and provide greater, and improved, program space.
The grants are from $34 million in capital funds for public library construction and broadband infrastructure projects provided in the 2021-22 state budget. In the 2022-2023 state budget, the legislature again provided $34 million for projects that will be announced next year.
Public library construction grants help local libraries and library systems to construct new library buildings, create additions to existing structures, update electrical wiring to accommodate computer technology, meet standards of energy efficiency, renovate facilities to provide full accessibility to library users with disabilities, and provide meeting rooms to accommodate community needs. New furniture, shelving, and equipment, including computer equipment, can be purchased for new or newly reconfigured or renovated space. Renovations designed to provide accessibility for those with disabilities are a high priority. Broadband infrastructure projects are also eligible
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. More than 52% of the over 1,000 public library buildings in communities across New York are over 60 years old. Another 31% are more than three decades old.
