Wednesday, June 29, 2016

New York State Library Construction Grant Awards 2016


From NYSED Communications
http://www.nysed.gov/news/2016

A link to the complete list of the award winners is near the end of this article. 


State Education Department Announces $14 Million in Library Construction Grants for 173 Public Libraries Statewide

The State Education Department today awarded $14 million in grants to 173 public libraries statewide for construction projects.
“Many public libraries statewide lack updated technology or facilities to fully serve children, parents and other community members," said Board of Regents Chancellor Betty A. Rosa. "If libraries are going to be an exciting destination for children and families, they need proper facilities. The grants we're announcing today will help fund the construction and renovation projects that will make that a reality."
“Public libraries are centers of communities,” said State Education Commissioner MaryEllen Elia. “These construction grants will enable public libraries statewide to make much-needed renovations or upgrade technologies to better serve the community. We must continue to invest in public libraries. The Board of Regents and I thank the Governor’s Office and the State Legislature for committing these funds."
Project activities eligible for grants include financing construction of new library buildings, construction of additions to existing buildings, and the renovation or rehabilitation of existing space. The projects can include roof replacement, purchase and installation of alternative energy resources and new HVAC systems, windows, doors, and lighting systems, electrical upgrades, and construction of new or replacement of old walkways and parking lots. New furniture, shelving and equipment, including computer equipment, can be purchased for new or newly renovated space. Renovations designed to provide accessibility for patrons with disabilities is a high priority.
Grant awards range from $3,206 to $1,734,521 and were awarded to libraries across the state:
Capital Region - $1,098,981
Southern Tier - $457,625
Western New York - $1,384,637
Hudson Valley - $1,577,094
Long Island - $1,714,951
New York City - $4,292,534
Finger Lakes - $1,482,366
Central New York - $690,234
Mohawk Valley - $562,076
North Country - $739,502
A complete list of award winners is available here:http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/construc/14m_pls16.htm.
Construction funds are allocated to New York State’s 23 public library systems based on formulas in Education Law.  Member libraries within a system compete for the State funds allocated to their public library system.  Each library system’s governing Board of Trustees then prioritizes the projects and sends approved project applications with recommended project awards to the State Library.  After State Library review, applications are then sent to the Dormitory Authority of New York State (DASNY) for final review and approval.
The grant funds are from $14 million in capital funds for public library construction provided in the 2015 State Budget. In the 2016 State Budget, the Legislature provided $19 million for projects that will be announced in Spring 2017.

Thursday, June 23, 2016

Thursday, June 16, 2016

Coming Soon! Maxwell's Adult Summer Reading Program

New! Adult Summer Reading Program at Maxwell


Here's what you need to know:

  • It begins Tuesday, July 5 and concludes on Monday, August 15  
  • A Dessert Party and Drawing for prizes will be on Thursday, August 18 at the library from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
  • You do not need to be present to win.
  • There's no sign up, or registration.
  • There are no logs to fill out and keep track of.
  • One book, audio book, or movie adapted from a book = 1 entry form. 
  • Entry forms will be available at the library beginning July 5. 
  • Drop your completed entry form in the Friends' prize box on top of the card catalog. 
  • Prizes will be gift cards to local establishments.
The Friends have supported the Children's and Teens' Summer Reading Program for many years. The Friends are very pleased to sponsor a Summer Reading Program just for grown-ups!
Sponsored by the Friends of Maxwell Memorial Library
for Maxwell Memorial Library

Wednesday, June 8, 2016

Crazy Busy Month of May, and a Little Bit of June

May is our busiest month of the year, and this year's May was no exception. Our Geranium Sale was a huge success! We sold 128 DOZEN gorgeous plants. Thank you to the Village of Camillus for letting us use the Village Hall for pick up day on May 14. The weather was perfect, and it was also the day of the Mile Long Garage Sale in the village. What a fun day. 

 


Two weeks later was the Memorial Day Parade in the village. It was an extra special event because it was a reunion year for the West Genesee Wildcat Alumni, and the 50th anniversary of the marching band.
The Friends set up camp out in front of the library with an array of items to give away to parade goers. We passed out 60 helium balloons, 90 patriotic pinwheels, 140 flags, and 3 cases of bottled water. All free, but we really appreciated your donations. Next year, we won't run out of water!



Saturday, June 4 was our Annual Garage Sale in Orchard Village. We started getting ready as soon as the parade was over. This year, we collected donated new children's books to give away to kids who came to the sale. It was a huge hit with the parents, as well as with the little ones. We sold a record number of treasures, but the Royal typewriter didn't find a new home.
Alas, we've come to the decision that this was our last garage sale, unless we can find someone else to take it over.
We've been fortunate to have it at the same home for 14 years.