Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner announced today that over $350,000 in construction awards will be directed to two public libraries in the district she represents in Washington and Saratoga counties.

“Local libraries fill a critical need here in our communities not only as homes of knowledge and information, but as community gathering places,” said Assemblywoman Woerner. “This summer I spent touring our local libraries as part of my Summer Reading Tour and it is very clear to me that these grants will help ensure our local libraries are around to years to come to continue providing resources for community members of all ages.”

These construction awards are being distributed to the community through a $14 million State Budget capital fund appropriation. The fund was established in an effort to support construction and renovation of public libraries and library systems throughout the state. The Southern Adirondack Library System, which encompasses both Washington and Saratoga counties, received almost $400,000 in construction awards.

The following projects were approved in the 113^th Assembly District:

• $14,231.00 for Bancroft Public Library to replace six single-pane windows will be replaced to improve energy efficiency and well as minor masonry work will be performed at one window opening.
• $337,500.00 for Stillwater Public Library to purchase a former factory to use as a new building.

More than half of New York State’s public libraries are over 60 years old. Library construction grants allow these vital organizations to address their aging infrastructure and make necessary enhancements to better serve the community. Assemblywoman Woerner has been an advocate for local libraries since taking office, including supporting a state budget this year with increased funding for library construction for upcoming years.