Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo (D-Endwell) announced today public library construction grant awards to local libraries. The Broome County Library has been awarded $19,605 to expand parking and install additional lighting. The George F. Johnson Memorial Library has been awarded $8,875 to install automatic door openers at front entryway and a new HVAC system in second floor meeting room.

The grants are from $14 million in capital funds for public library construction provided in the 2008-2009 state budget. Public library construction grants help local libraries and library systems to build new libraries, create additions, update electrical wiring to accommodate computer technology, meet standards of energy efficiency, renovate facilities to provide full accessibility to library users with disabilities, and provide meeting rooms to accommodate community needs.

More than 40% of the over 1,000 public library buildings in communities across New York are over 60 years old. Another 30% are more than three decades old. Many of New York’s local public libraries are unable to accommodate users with disabilities, are energy inefficient, cannot provide Internet and computer and other electronic technologies to users because of outdated and inadequate electrical wiring, and do not have sufficient space to house the library’s expanding collection, address the need for adequate meeting room, or provide for public access computers.