Assemblymembers Angelo Santabarbara (D-Rotterdam) and Phil Steck (D-Niskayuna) announced that Schenectady County Public Library was awarded a grant for improvements in the amount of $111,318.

The grant was awarded through the New York State Education Department’s Public Library Construction Grant Program. Libraries from around the state submitted applications vying for a total of $14 million in funding which can provide up to 75 percent of approved costs for acquisition, construction, renovation, or rehabilitation of public library system headquarters.¹

“This funding will build upon the commitment we made to improving library services during my time on the county legislature,” said Assemblyman Santabarbara. “From the new children’s wing to increasing the size and upgrading the computers, now the library has something for everyone. I encourage families to take advantage of the many services and programs available to them, especially when school is out for the summer.”

“Whether residents come to learn, expand their imaginations or take advantage of the many programs the library offers, Schenectady library is the cornerstone of our community,” Assemblymember Phil Steck said. “Education is one of my top priorities and our libraries serve a huge role, and we must ensure that the Schenectady County Library continues to be accessible to everyone.”

The Schenectady County Public Library will use the funding to replace the sidewalks outside of the Clinton Street building to improve access for residents.

“Repairing and replacing the sidewalks outside of our library will vastly improve access for all of our patrons,” said Gary Hughes, Chairman of the Schenectady County Legislature’s Education and Libraries Committee. “Libraries are so vital to our communities. They are not only places to learn, they also serve as access points for job seekers and the programs we provide give our children activities to do during the summer months.”

1. http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/construc/