State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud announced that the Brooklyn Public Library – New Lots Avenue Branch has been allocated 4.5 million in state aid for library construction funds. In addition, Senator Persaud personally secured $500,000 in capital funding to support the project.
The funds will enable the Brooklyn Public Library – New Lots Avenue Branch to replace the existing structure, which no longer meets the community’s needs, operational demands, or current energy codes. The funds are from $44 million in capital funds for public library construction and broadband infrastructure projects provided in the FY2024-2025 State Budget.
“This $4.5 million state investment in the Brooklyn Public Library’s New Lots Avenue Branch is a critical step toward ensuring our community has access to a modern, safe, and energy-efficient facility that meets today’s needs. Libraries are cornerstones of our neighborhoods, and this funding will allow New Lots Avenue to better serve residents with improved resources, technology, and spaces for learning and connection.”
Staff of the New York State Library provide critical technical support and review every application before submission to the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY), ensuring each library has the strongest possible project eligible for funding. As a result, over 75% of all applications are updated prior to DASNY submission.
New York’s public libraries urgently need renovation and upgrades. A recent survey showed a documented need for public library construction and renovation projects totaling more than $1.75 billion. More than a third of the over 1,000 public library buildings in communities across New York are 100+ years old. Over three-quarters of public library buildings are at least 40 years old.
Many of New York’s local public libraries are unable to accommodate users with disabilities, are energy-inefficient, and cannot provide Internet access, computers, and other electronic technologies because of outdated and inadequate electrical wiring. Many do not have sufficient space to house the library’s ever-expanding collection, to provide adequate meeting spaces, or to support public access computers.
Project activities and expenditures eligible for funding under the State Aid for Library Construction Program include financing the construction of new library buildings, the construction of additions to existing buildings, and the renovation and/or rehabilitation of existing space.
Projects may include roof replacement; the purchase and installation of alternative energy resources; upgrades to improve energy efficiency, such as new HVAC systems, windows, doors, lighting systems, electrical upgrades, EV charging stations, standby generators; and new construction or replacement of parking lots. Broadband infrastructure projects are also eligible.
New furniture, shelving, and equipment, including computer equipment, may be purchased for new or newly reconfigured or renovated space. Renovations designed to provide and/or improve accessibility for patrons with disabilities are a high priority.
In the FY2025-2026 State Budget, the Legislature also provided $44 million for projects that will be announced in the Summer of 2026. This support for the State aid for Library Construction program recognizes the continued need for support for libraries statewide to provide essential services to New Yorkers.
Photo: Brooklyn Public Library
