Central New York Libraries Awarded $14 Million In Construction Grants

Four Oneida County Public Libraries are set to split $14 million in grant funding from the State for construction upgrades.

The funds were announced by Senator Joseph Griffo and Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi who added that a total of $19 million was approved for the library construction projects that will be announced in the spring of 2017.

The money will be used by the local libraries for parking lot, energy and renovation projects at Barneveld Free Library, Clayville Library, Dunham Public Library, The MId-York Library System in Utica and the Utica Public Library.

“Public libraries are more popular than ever.  Many of our libraries are older buildings, and their directors often tell me they need more space and improved infrastructure to handle computers and other modern technology. Area library directors often tell me how important the public library construction grant program is to accommodate more patrons. I am pleased that $5 million in additional funding was added for this program in this year’s budget.  Libraries receiving these grants will be announced next spring,” Brindisi said.

Here's a breakdown of what each individual library will receive:

• Barneveld Free Library: $9,464 for an energy retrofit, including insulation and replacement of the furnace
• Clayville Library: $9,169 to replace front steps and landing for safer access to the building
• Dunham Public Library, Whitesboro: $24,990 for parking lot preparation work
• Mid-York Library System, Utica: $17,962 to complete an off-street parking project
• Utica Public Library: $24,990 to upgrade two restrooms

“Our public libraries are more than just places for people to find books. Libraries are also community centers that offer learning programs for children, quiet places for people to do work or read the news, and computers or internet access for those who may not have their own capabilities at home. Libraries play a very important role in our neighborhoods, but smaller communities cannot always afford the necessary upgrades to these buildings, so it is important that New York State continues to assist libraries in providing the most accessible and comfortable setting possible to meet the public’s needs,” Griffo said.