Monday, June 24, 2013

Assemblywoman Russell announces more than $200,000 in grants for North Country libraries

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa) announced that the New York State Library has awarded construction grants to public libraries in Jefferson and St. Lawrence counties. The funding, which was supported by Assemblywoman Russell in the 2012 state budget, will go toward renovation and construction projects to enhance local library facilities.

“Libraries are a vital part of our community by providing our families with educational and recreational services that they may not otherwise have access to,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “This funding will allow patrons to continue using critical resources such as the Internet, job-training programs and tax filing services. Upgrades and enhancements to facilities will ensure that North Country families are getting the most out of their library experience.”

            The following local libraries will receive grants for various construction and renovation projects to improve their facilities:

 Jefferson County
·        Cape Vincent Community Library
·        Hawn Memorial Library
·        Lyme Free Library

St. Lawrence County
·        Canton Free Library
·        Ogdensburg Public Library
·        Potsdam Public Library

“The library construction grants help municipalities and libraries make their buildings more accessible and useful for their many patrons,” Steve Bolton, Director of the North Country Library System, said. “It’s always very difficult for libraries to save enough money for construction costs, so these grants are vital, especially for the older historic buildings. I want to thank Assemblywoman Addie Russell for her advocacy and support in helping to fund our North Country libraries.”


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