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Ortt announces $47,340 in state aid for three Niagara County libraries

by jmaloni

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Fri, Aug 14th 2015 07:25 pm

Public libraries in Niagara Falls, Lockport and Wilson awarded construction grants

State Sen. Rob Ortt has announced more than $47,000 in state funding was awarded to three public libraries in Niagara County in need of upgrades. The money was secured in the 2014-15 state budget as part of the $14 million capital funding program for construction and renovation of public libraries and public library systems in New York.

The Niagara Falls Public Library LaSalle Branch, the Lockport Public Library and the Wilson Free Library are receiving a combined total of $47,340 in state aid.

"Libraries open the door to a multitude of opportunities and are the window to a child's endless imagination," Ortt said. "Libraries allow us to enrich our lives and expand our education. It's important to continue that enrichment by keeping our libraries updated and up-to-date with the latest technology. The public library construction grants will allow these libraries to thrive and continue to serve its community members for many more years."

Lockport Public Library has been awarded $34,215 for phase two of its project to rehabilitate the front porch, steps and original front wall on the exterior of the building. Niagara Falls Public Library LaSalle Branch is set to receive $10,375 to install an energy-efficient, custom-made side door. And, Wilson Free Library was awarded $2,750 for its energy-efficient window replacement project.

State aid for library construction help local libraries and library systems to build new libraries, construct additions to existing buildings, renovate and/or rehabilitate existing spaces, replace roofs, update electrical wiring, meet energy efficiency standards and accommodate individuals with disabilities, among other things.

Many of New York's public libraries are in need of renovation and upgrading. According to the New York State Library, approximately half of the more than 1,000 public library buildings in communities across the state are more than 60 years old. Another 30 percent are more than three decades old.

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