State Aid for Library Construction Program

Overview

The State Aid for Public Library Construction Program is a grant through the Division of Library Development and administered by Public Library System which allows individual public libraries and library systems to apply for funds for capital improvement projects. Libraries can qualify for up to 75% of their total project cost as an award depending on population, the number of libraries applying for funds, and Pioneer Library System Board approval. Funds have been allocated to public library systems based on formulas in Education Law 273-a. The minimum allocation is $2,500 for a project. Repair and general maintenance projects are ineligible to receive construction grant funds.

Intent to Apply

In order to be eligible to apply for a State Aid for Public Library Construction Grant, your library will need to complete an 'Intent to Apply' form by May 22, 2020. Awards will be based on eligibility and total project cost submitted in the 'Intent to Apply.'

Click here to complete an Intent to Apply form .

Deadline: June 30, 2020

Approximate Timeline 2020

• March 5, 2020: Informational meeting for libraries intending on applying for a Construction Grant in 2020 (Click here to register).
• June 30, 2020: Intent to Apply Form due to PLS.
• July 3, 2020: Construction Aid Award Committee meeting to approve library awards.
• July 8, 2020: Libraries will be notified to begin work on their full Construction Grant Application.
• July 10, 2020: Libraries must affirm that they are moving forward with their projects at the award level announced.
• August 31, 2020: Full Construction Grant Application due to PLS.
• September 9, 2020: PLS Board Meeting, Construction Grant Committee to recommend project approval.
• September 10, 2020: Libraries will receive approved recommendation notification from the PLS board.
• October 3, 2020: Approximate deadline for PLS to submit the final construction grant application due to DLD.
• July-August 2021: Libraries will be notified that their applications have been approved by DLD and DASNY.
• September-October 2021: Libraries will receive the first initial payment of Construction Grant Funds.

Resources

• Construction Grant Checklist
• Construction Grant Instructions
• Intent to Apply, Due: June 30, 2020
• Sample Facilities Plan Outline
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Construction Grant Info Meeting Slides - March 5, 2020.pdf