Ceretto helps bring $5 million in aid to libraries

Assemblyman John Ceretto announced libraries across New York will receive a $5 million increase in aid after the Assembly passed the 2015-16 state budget earlier this month.

"Libraries are such a valuable and necessary component of every community in New York state. I've always enjoyed visiting my local libraries and have encouraged my children and students to do the same," said Ceretto, a former high school teacher. "I'm pleased that other legislators have not forgotten the importance of libraries in our communities and have decided to vote with me on this bill so our libraries can stay fully operational."

Many local libraries will benefit from this increase. In recent years, LaSalle and Earl Brydges from the Niagara Falls Public Library system received $19,201, while Lewiston Public Library received $3,515, Sanborn-Pekin Free Library received $1,384, and Grand Island Public Library received $5,298.

"As we've seen with aid increases recently, this funding really assists libraries looking to improve their services and facilities. I look forward to seeing the improvements our local libraries will make with this increase in aid so everyone in our community can reap the benefits of what libraries have to offer," Ceretto said.

He also mentioned the Friends of Niagara Falls Library group is looking for used books to ensure local libraries can maintain a reasonable book count.