Assemblyman Robert Smullen (R,C-Mohawk Valley and the Adirondacks) announces five library construction grant award recipients in Assembly District 118. The New York State Education Department (NYSED) and the New York State Library approved 212 construction projects for public libraries and public library systems statewide. These projects will be supported by a $44 million capital fund appropriation included in the FY 2024-25 State Budget.

The Assembly District 118 library construction grant award recipients include:

• The Gloversville Public Library in Fulton County, which was awarded $104,626 in state aid to install internal and external security cameras;
• The Johnstown Public Library in Fulton County, which was awarded $251,804 in state aid to construct an exterior hardscape on the property’s western side, rebuild the historic entrance and create a multipurpose outdoor space;
• The Frankfort Free Library in Herkimer County, which was awarded $82,912 in state aid to remove existing windows on the main level of the library and install new energy-efficient windows in those openings;
• The Old Forge Library in Herkimer County, which was awarded $144,559 in state aid to install a hydronic geothermal heating and cooling vertical loop field under the parking lot; and
• The Prospect Free Library in Oneida County, which was awarded $12,750 in state aid to replace nine windows and install vinyl siding on the exterior of the building.

“It is inspiring to see these grant monies awarded to libraries throughout the 118th Assembly District to help bring these historic centers for reading and learning into the 21st century,” said Smullen. “Our libraries play a significant role in the community, providing people of all ages with access to knowledge and spaces to explore literature across a variety of genres. I am excited to see these renovation projects completed, modernizing our libraries so they stand tall for years to come.”