SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) – New York State Senator John Mannion is sending $1.7 million to Central New York libraries in the state’s 50th Senate District. This comes in an effort to “enhance the visitor experience and community value of local libraries.”
The Onondaga County Public Library along with the Marcellus Free Library are two locations that’ll benefit. They’re receiving $81,316 and $157,749, respectively.
Tom Walters, the communications director of Onondaga Public Libraries is thrilled with increased funding. Considering the number of libraries here in Central New York, the nearly two million is a huge help. He said Senator Mannion sees the value in libraries.
“In the OCPL system we have over 32 libraries in the county,” Walters said. “I think the Senator, who has a history of being an educator, understands the importance of the library system.”
This is transformative for everyone involved, both the libraries and patrons. The financial support helps with a number of projects that otherwise would’ve had to wait until next year. Now, a renovated parking lot at White Branch and updated accessibility at the Beauchamp Library’s entrance are possible.
“You have about maybe 100…150 people a day coming in,” Walters said. “It’s important that they’re not driving on pot holes and that the parking lot is in decent shape. It’s been in disrepair for a number of years.”
There’s a clear emphasis on the exteriors of these libraries. Marcellus, especially, is aiming to create a special environment to congregate.
“They want to build and create more of an outdoor amphitheater,” Walters said. “They have shows and musical acts that take place and this will upgrade.”
There is no official timeline for when these upgrades will be completed. The hope for some is this year, but with winter fast approaching, construction may have to wait until the spring. Walters said all projects will be done in the next 12 months.
