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The libraries receiving construction funds include those in Bedford, Bedford Hills, Harrison, Katonah, North Castle and White Plains. The grants will help in improvements like new roofs and air conditioning systems, as well as creating and renovating space for the latest in library technologies, Buchwald and Latimer said. Funding for the projects was provided in the 2016-2017 State Budget.
Latimer was thrilled to help keep Westchester libraries safe and accessible for years to come. Buchwald said Westchester libraries provide the community with places to discover, learn and connect.
“These construction grants allow our libraries to make needed infrastructure improvements so they can continue providing educational programs and universal access to library materials," Buchwald said.
The six library construction grant awards, totaling $402,828 are:
· Bedford Free Library, for roof replacement and fireplace repairs, $28,804
· Bedford Hills Free Library, to replace a thirty-year-old HVAC system, $23,804
· Harrison Public Library (Richard E. Halperin Memorial Library Building), for roof replacement, $123,804
· Katonah Village Library, to install automatic accessible doors at patron entrances, $13,804
· North Castle Public Library (North White Plains Branch), to help renovate the building to support new library technologies, $58,805
· White Plains Public Library, to support extensive first floor renovations that include the community room, classrooms and a cafe, $153,807
Ann Cloonan, Bedford Free Library Director said they were thrilled to receive the grant.
“Our cozy village library is a historic building and that makes major projects costly," Cloonan said. This was the first time I had applied for a construction grant and we will be using the funds for a new roof and interior fireplace repairs.”
Sean Ryan, North Castle Library Board President praised the two for being advocates for libraries.
“They have helped our library expand space available to our patrons, enabled implementation of new technology based programming and supported upgrading our infrastructure with greener and more cost effective solutions," Ryan said.
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