Salka, May secure library grants

Local libraries combined received more than $600,000 to put toward upgrades, renovations, and more.

ALBANY, N.Y. >> Ten libraries in the 121st district will be receiving funding from the State Education Department Public Library Construction Project.

“I am ecstatic to bring this much-needed funding to our local libraries,” Assemblyman John Salka, R-121, said. “Bringing the magic of reading to another generation is something I will always support, and our libraries need our help to keep pace with the technological demands of the modernworld. Ensuring that they have the funding they need and the publicity for all they offer is near and dear to my heart. I encourage all of my constituents to take advantage of all that our great libraries have to offer.”

The funds are from$34 million in capital funds for public library construction and broadband infrastructure projects provided in the FY2018-2019 State Budget.

Sen. Rachel May’s office said New York’s public libraries are in urgent need of renovation and upgrading. There is a documented need for public library construction and renovation projects totaling more than $1.7 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. 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are energy inefficient, cannot provide Internet and computer and other electronic technologies to users because of outdated and inadequate electrical wiring.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 adequatemeeting room, or provide for public access computers.

“It is incredibly important that we provide state funding to help our public libraries improve their ability to serve residents,” said May. “Libraries are critical community resources which allow our children and residents of all ages to have access not only to a plethora of reading materials, but also to the technology and broadband services that many lack at home. We rely so heavily on internet and computer access for daily life that we often forget the digital divide that hinders so many people’s ability to fully participate in society. By investing in ADA-accessibility, better indoor lighting and air quality, and up-to-date computer and broadband technology, we are ensuring that our residents have full access to the resources we all need in a safe and welcoming environment.”

Among libraries funded include: The Canastota Public Library to make the electrical system and elevators ADA compliant; the Cazenovia Public Library to update insulation, lighting and interior and exterior renovations; the New Woodstock Free Library to update insulation and make the entrance ramp ADA compliant; the Oneida Public Library to renovate the circulation area; the Sullivan Free Library to renovate the parking lot andmake sidewalks ADA compliant; the Sullivan Free Library (Bridgeport Branch) to expand the parking lot and the Waterville Public Library to replace the boiler and perform exterior renovations.