White Plains Library Receives Construction Grant

WHITE PLAINS, NY — State Assemblyman David Buchwald, D-Bedford, and Senator George Latimer, D-Rye, announced that more than $400,000 in construction grants are being awarded to improve the infrastructure at six Westchester County libraries. Libraries receiving construction funds include those in Bedford, Bedford Hills, Harrison, Katonah, North Castle and White Plains. The grants support needed improvements like new roofs and air conditioning systems, as well as creating and renovating space for the latest in library technologies. Funding for these public library construction projects was provided in the 2016-2017 State Budget.

“Our community libraries are a focal point for gathering and learning. I am thrilled to join Assemblyman Buchwald and the indefatigable workers and volunteers who keep our libraries running in announcing these grants that will keep our libraries safe and accessible for years to come,” Latimer said.

“Westchester’s libraries provide the entire community with places to discover, learn and connect,” Buchwald said. “These construction grants allow our libraries to make needed infrastructure improvements so they can continue providing educational programs and universal access to library materials.”

The six library construction grant awards, totaling $402,528 are:

• Bedford Free Library, for roof replacement and fireplace repairs, $28,804
• Bedford Hills Free Library, to replace a 30-year-old HVAC system, $23,804
• Harrison Public Library (Richard E. Halperin Memorial Library Building), for roof replacement, $123,804
• Katonah Village Library, to install automatic accessible doors at patron entrances, $13,804
• North Castle Public Library (North White Plains Branch), to help renovate the building to support new library technologies, $58,805
• White Plains Public Library, to support extensive first floor renovations that include the community room, classrooms and a cafe, $153,807

“This construction grant helps fund a reinvention of this grand Library, creating The Hub for adults with a new community room, new classrooms, expanded technology and even a café,” said White Plains Library Director Brian Kenney. “We are fortunate that Assemblyman Buchwald and Senator Latimer, along with Assemblywoman Paulin and Senator Stewart-Cousins, understand libraries new role as community centers focused on lifelong learning, and the funding for these major renovations supports this important mission.”

Assemblyman Buchwald and Senator Latimer are longtime advocates for the region’s libraries supporting their important role in education, and as thriving community centers. The $402,528 in construction grants announced today re-affirm that commitment.

Photo credit: Google Maps.