Goldfeder Secures over $700K for Public Libraries in Southern Queens and Rockaway

Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder

Goldfeder: grant funding will go a long way to improve our libraries and help cover the costs of some much needed renovations

  

Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D-Ozone Park) has helped to secure over $700K through the Public Library Construction Grant Program to help renovate the Ozone Park Public Library Branch and the Sandy-damaged Peninsula Public Library in Rockaway Beach.

  

“Our libraries play an important role in educating our children and families,” said Assemblyman Phillip Goldfeder. “This additional grant funding will go a long way to improve our libraries and help cover the costs of some much needed renovations.”

Goldfeder announced $582,654 was awarded to the Peninsula Community Library located on Rockaway Beach Blvd and $158,416 to the Ozone Park Community Library located on 92-24 Rockaway Blvd.

After receiving extensive damaged from Superstorm Sandy, the Peninsula Community Library is expected to once again reopen its doors early next year. The funding from the Construction Grant Program will cover expenses for interior renovations including: handicapped accessible bathroom, electrical, signage, new roof, security camera system, and help rebuild the new children's section and adult learning center. The grant funding secured for the Ozone Park Library will involve interior renovations including: new and renovated restrooms, ceilings and lighting, doors, electrical upgrades and HVAC ductwork. 

A recent survey showed a documented need for public library construction and renovation projects totaling more than $2.2 billion.  More than 48% of the over 1,000 public library buildings in communities across New York are over 60 years old. Another 30% are more than three decades old, Goldfeder noted.

“Our public libraries are in need of urgent rebuilding, renovation and upgrading,” said Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder.  “Every dime will help ensure our libraries are properly maintained and continue to serve our communities in southern Queens and Rockaway.”