State Education Department Announces $14 Million in Library Construction Grants for Public Libraries Statewide

The State Education Department awarded $14 million in grants to 173 public libraries statewide for construction projects.

The Reed Memorial Library in Carmel received $6,785 to convert to natural gas and insulate pipes, the Putnam Valley Free Library received $33,288 o build a pedestrian bridge for access to the library , and the Alice Curtis Desmond-Hamilton Fish Library in Garrison received $36,986 to renovate storage space into a computer lab.

“Many public libraries statewide lack updated technology or facilities to fully serve children, parents and other community members," said Board of Regents Chancellor Betty A. Rosa. "If libraries are going to be an exciting destination for children and families, they need proper facilities. The grants we're announcing today will help fund the construction and renovation projects that will make that a reality."

“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."

Statewide, the grant awards ranged from $3,206 to $1,734,521.

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