State Education Commissioner David Steiner recently announced that the New York State Library has awarded $14 million in grants for library construction and renovation projects. “At a time when libraries statewide are seeing increased use within their respective communities and so many library budgets are declining, we are pleased to provide these funds,” Commissioner Steiner said.

Three libraries in Monroe County will receive money for construction projects. The Seymour Library in Brockport will receive $6,108 for creation of a newly defined & improved young adult space. Also for telecommunication drops, new laptops and wireless connectivity. They will also improve electrical service to area workstations and lighting and new lighting fixtures.

The second library receiving funds is the Rochester library on Monroe Avenue that will receive $11,159. They will use their money for energy conservation through lighting renovation.

Lastly, the Gates Public Library will receive $364,274 for total library reconstruction. The Gates Library is currently closed and moving to a new location at 902 Elmbgrove Road. The total cost of construction of the new library will be around $2.9 million and this grant will help. The new library is slatted to open on June 15th. There are plans and pictures of the construction on the Gates Public Library website.