Assemblyman Kevin Byrne announced today that two local libraries will be allocated over $100,000 in state aid for library construction funds. The grants, which will provide support for the Reed and John C. Hart Memorial Libraries, will fund important infrastructure improvement projects and will assist these local institutions in their mission to offer residents a full suite of educational and recreational services.
The grants, included in $24 million of capital funds for public library construction and broadband infrastructure projects provided in the 2017-18 State Budget, represent major victories for library advocates who have long been pushing for increased state support. The Reed Memorial Library in Putnam County will receive $25,453 to fund the installation of new windows and an HVAC system. The John C. Hart Memorial Library’s $83,725 grant will fund ADA and energy-efficiency improvements to the facility’s restrooms.
“As your state Assembly representative, I have made advocating for the needs of our local libraries a top priority, and our receipt of this state funding will go a long way in support of these local institutions of learning,” said Byrne. “Investments in libraries pay major dividends for our students and community, and moving forward I will remain committed to pursuing grant opportunities to assist this worthy cause.”
Assemblyman Byrne has been a vocal proponent of state library funding, and has joined with assembly colleagues to ensure libraries get their fair share from the state. In the 2018-19 State Budget, the Legislature provided $34 million, an increase of $10 million, for projects that will be announced in summer 2019.