Queens Public Library has been awarded $1,230,321 in public construction funds. The funds will enable four Queens branches to renovate their interiors. These branches include the Rockaway Beach Boulevard Branch in Rockaway Park. The grant funds are from a special allocation of $14 million in capital funds for public library construction provided by the New York State Legislature in the 2007-2008 State Budget. New York's public libraries are in urgent need of renovation and upgrading. More than 40 percent of the over 1,000 public library buildings in communities across New York are over 60 years old. Another 30 percent are more than three decades old. Many of New York's local libraries are unable to accommodate users with disabilities; cannot provide Internet, computer or other electronic technologies to users because of outdated and inadequate electrical wiring; and do not have sufficient space to house the library's collection.
"These grants will help our local libraries bring about these much needed renovations to their buildings so that these vital resources remain available and up-to-date for our communities," said Assemblywoman Audrey Pheffer.