UTICA — State Sen. Joseph Griffo, R-47, Rome, announced Thursday that several public libraries in the 47th District will receive state library construction grant funds.

The grants come from $34 million in capital funds that were included in the 2020-21 State Budget for public library construction projects, according to the announcement from Griffo’s office.

Among local libraries to share in the funding include:

• Dunham Public Library, 76 Main St., Whitesboro: $323,625 for the rehabilitation of Dunham House, including a bay window, toilet room, kitchenette, office dividing wall, IT and electrical;
• Mid York Library System, 1600 Lincoln Ave., Utica: $19,209 to upgrade security-monitoring system, modify an exterior portion of the building and to purchase and install system broadband network equipment;
• Utica Public Library, 303 Genesee St., Utica: $13,190 to upgrade fire detection/alarm system with new smoke detectors, fire alarms and supporting infrastructure;
• Waterville Public Library, 206 White St., Waterville: $24,024 to rehabilitate, seal and insulate failed windows in the main library room and install touchless automatic door openers for the main entrance;
• Lowville Free Library, 5387 Dayan St., Lowville: $8,784 for the removal and replacement of a damaged boiler and air conditioning condenser with high efficiency models. 

“Our public libraries play a critically important role as centers of learning, culture and civic activity in many communities throughout the region,” Griffo said. “However, it can be difficult to afford the necessary upgrades and renovations that these buildings may need. This funding will help libraries throughout my district undertake a variety of improvements and projects that will help them to flourish for years to come.”