Assemblyman Scott Bendett (R,C-Sand Lake) and Sen. Jake Ashby (R,C-Castleton) are proud to announce the Sand Lake Town Library and the Grafton Community Library, located in Rensselaer County, have been chosen by the New York State Education Department/New York State Library to receive state funding to help aid in much-needed construction and updates. The Sand Lake and Grafton libraries are two of 197 statewide libraries to receive this crucial financial support this year. The funding for these library improvements originated in the Capital Projects section of the state budget and comes from a program that both Assemblyman Bendett and Sen. Ashby are proud to support.

The Grafton Community Library is set to receive $33,717 for the purchase and installation of solar energy infrastructure, the construction of a backyard events pavilion and two new electric vehicle charging stations. The Sand Lake Town Library will receive $58,300 to retrofit bathroom fixtures and lighting to conserve water and energy, bolster access to the facilities and complete other much-needed upgrades.

“The opportunities this state aid will provide our public libraries are amazing,” said Bendett. “Libraries play an important role in bringing together communities and offering a quiet place to enjoy reading and learning, yet many of our more historic library buildings are in need of repair. Thanks to this funding, two of our treasured libraries in Rensselaer County will be able to upgrade and move into the 21st century with the installation of solar panels and more energy-efficient bathroom fixtures and lighting so visitors have the best experience possible. I look forward to seeing the renovations in person when they’re completed!”

“I am excited that two of our local libraries have been awarded much needed funding to ensure they can continue to provide outstanding services to our community,” said Ashby. “Our local libraries are cornerstones of our community and, along with my legislative partner Assemblyman Scott Bendett, we will continue working to ensure our libraries have the necessary support to thrive.”