State Education Department Awards $34M For Public Library Construction Projects

The New York State Education Department has awarded $34 million to 207 public libraries and library systems across the state to support construction and renovation projects. These funds assist libraries in constructing new buildings, creating additions, updating electrical wiring and computer technology, improving broadband infrastructure, meeting energy efficiency standards, renovating facilities to provide greater accessibility, and providing meeting spaces to accommodate community needs.

Project activities that are eligible for awards include a wide range of endeavors such as providing EV charging stations and solar panels, financing broadband infrastructure projects, constructing new library buildings, adding to existing structures, and renovating or rehabilitating existing spaces.

In new or newly renovated spaces, projects may include the purchase of new furniture, shelving, and computer equipment, as these expenses are only eligible if the spaces meet the renovation or construction criteria.

According to a press release, high priority was given to renovations that improve accessibility for patrons with disabilities. Projects that aim to extend library services to geographically isolated and economically disadvantaged communities also receive priority consideration.

Brooklyn Public Library
Buffalo-Erie County Public Library
Chautauqua-Cattaraugus Library System
Clinton-Essex-Franklin Library System
Finger Lakes Library System
Four County Library System
Mid-Hudson Library System
Mid York Library System
Mohawk Valley Library System
Monroe County Library System
Nassau Library System
New York Public Library
Nioga Library System
North Country Library System
Onondaga County Public Library
OWWL Library System
Queens Borough Public Library
Ramapo Catskill Library System
Southern Adirondack Library System
Southern Tier Library System
Suffolk Cooperative Library System
Upper Hudson Library System
Westchester Library System