State Sen. George Borrello announced that 16 libraries from the Chautauqua-Cattaraugus, Pioneer and Southern Tier library systems were awarded $1,258,436 in state Public Library Construction Grants to assist with renovation and construction projects.

The funding will enable libraries to better meet the needs of their patrons by increasing accessibility and modernizing facilities while reducing operating costs. The awards are from $34 million in capital funds allocated by the Legislature for public library construction and renovation as part of the 2023-24 state budget.

“Funding our public libraries is one of the best investments we can make in our communities,” Borrello said. “As I have said many times in the past, libraries are no longer just “the place with the books.” They are community centers that provide vital services. They are also information and technology hubs that serve students, job seekers and people of all backgrounds.”

“With library budgets perpetually stretched thin, this funding will help our libraries update their facilities without impacting local taxpayers,” Borrello said.

Libraries in Sen. Borrello’s district awarded funding through the New York State Library Construction Fund include:

— Anderson-Lee Library received $64,546 to upgrade the existing facilities of their library, making it a safer, more comfortable, and resilient community resource.

— Bemus Point Public Library received $15,103 to update the circulation desk area and the public PC areas to provide more workspace, better work areas, and expanded storage.

— Chautauqua Institution received $228,920 to completely replace the entire slate roofing system and associated roof flashings and accessories.

— Clymer-French Creek Free Library received $31,578 to improve air control, electrical system, accessibility at entrance, safety of their outer shell and lighting on the outside of the building.

— Dunkirk Public Library received $22,469 to increase building accessibility and improve the patron service area by installing an ADA ramp and redesign their circulation desk.

— James Prendergast Free Library will receive $214,473 to improve patron/staff safety and usability of the library by updating the front entrance, circulation area, and desks.

— Minerva Free Library will receive $81,711.00 to replace windows located in the basement, main, and third floors that are broken or failing.

— Patterson Library will receive $63,750 to update their outdated heating system to improve reliability, comfort, and energy efficiency.

“With this funding, we can help our libraries meet the needs of our communities, passing on our history and knowledge to the next generation and helping us dream, imagine and build a brighter tomorrow,” Borrello said. “The volunteers and staff at our libraries provide wonderful programs folks need and deserve. This funding will help ensure they have the resources to do that.”

Over half of the over 1,000 public library buildings in communities across New York are over 60 years old. Another one-third are more than three decades old.

Many of New York’s local public libraries are unable to accommodate users with disabilities, are energy inefficient and have outdated technologies.

Renovations designed to provide accessibility for patrons with disabilities are often given the highest priority.