ALBANY – The State Education Department today awarded $14 million in grants to 173 public libraries statewide for construction projects.
“Public libraries are centers of communities,” said State Education Commissioner MaryEllen Elia. “These construction grants will enable public libraries statewide to make much-needed renovations or upgrade technologies to better serve the community. We must continue to invest in public libraries. The Board of Regents and I thank the Governor’s Office and the State Legislature for committing these funds.”
Project activities eligible for grants include financing construction of new library buildings, construction of additions to existing buildings, and the renovation or rehabilitation of existing space. The projects can include roof replacement, purchase and installation of alternative energy resources and new HVAC systems, windows, doors, and lighting systems, electrical upgrades, and construction of new or replacement of old walkways and parking lots. New furniture, shelving and equipment, including computer equipment, can be purchased for new or newly renovated space. Renovations designed to provide accessibility for patrons with disabilities is a high priority.
Mid-Hudson Library System
County
Library
Award
Amount
Project Description
Columbia
Claverack Free Library
$88,500
Building renovation project including asbestos removal, HVAC, and fiber optic network.
Hudson Area Association Library
$3,206
Three ADA-accessible single-user/family restrooms.
Kinderhook Memorial Library
$68,356
Add 450 square feet of usable space to the building and supplement areas of wireless access.
Dutchess
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.
Mid-Hudson Library System
$51,596
Provide ADA-compliant restrooms and improve safety of 1st floor lobby area and access to restrooms.
Greene
Catskill Public Library
$35,002
Upgrade the HVAC system and insulate the attic.
Putnam
Reed Memorial Library
$6,785
Convert to natural gas, install generator, and insulate pipes.
Putnam Valley Free Library
$33,288
Replace pedestrian bridge which provides access to the Library.
Alice Curtis Desmond and Hamilton Fish Library
$36,986
Renovate storage space into a secure Computer Lab.
Ulster
Kingston Library
$179,936
Children’s room renovation.
Olive Free Library
$4,794
Purchase and install emergency generator, update electrical panels, consolidate electrical service, and install transfer switches and utility pole.
