State Education Department Announces $14 Million In Public Library Construction Grants

State Education Commissioner David Steiner today announced that the New York State Library has awarded $14 million in grants for construction and renovation projects at 177 public library and library system buildings throughout the state.

"At a time when libraries statewide are seeing increased use within their respective communities and so many library budgets are declining, we are pleased to provide these funds which can be used to enhance institutional capability.  We must do all that we can to ensure that our public libraries remain viable community centers for all citizens from pre-schoolers to lifelong learners," Commissioner Steiner said.

Project activities and expenditures eligible for grants from the program include financing construction of new library buildings, construction of additions to existing buildings, and the renovation and/or rehabilitation of existing space, including 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, among other things.  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 patrons with disabilities are a high priority. A list of those libraries and library systems receiving grants can be accessed at www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/construc/index.html.  

"We are very pleased to announce these statewide awards," said Deputy Commissioner for Cultural Education Jeffrey Cannell who is, additionally, serving as Acting New York State Librarian.  "Through these grants, libraries which are striving to keep up with accelerating demand will be able to make essential capital improvements.  It is our hope that these improvements will ensure that our public libraries are able to remain at the forefront of community activity," Cannell concluded. 

The Public Library Construction Grant program is administered by the New York State Library, one of four institutions that comprise the department’s Office of Cultural Education (OCE).  OCE operates three major cultural institutions with stewardship responsibilities for collections -- the New York State Museum, State Library, and State Archives - and the Office of Educational Television and Public Broadcasting. All three collection-holding institutions ensure that valuable information, knowledge and collections under their care, are preserved and made available for current and future generations.

(Note to Editors---Please contact Mary Linda Todd at the New York State Library at 518.486.4858 or mtodd@mail.nysed.gov for more information on the Public Library Construction Grant Program or visit the New York State Library website:
www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/construc/index.html.)