Saratoga Standard

Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh has announced that the Ballston Spa Public Library and the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library will receive a total of $702,780 in state aid for construction projects. This funding is part of an effort to modernize and improve library facilities in the 112th Assembly District.

The Ballston Spa Public Library has been allocated $502,474 in addition to a previous grant of $40,000 from state bullet aid earlier this year. The funds will be used to complete a reading room and local history addition. The library serves as a key public center in the Village of Ballston Spa, addressing community needs through modernization and facility upgrades.

In Clifton Park, $200,306 will be directed towards creating new spaces in the Children’s Library. These enhancements include a mother's care room, an educational activities area, and a technology hub. As one of Saratoga County's fastest-growing towns, Clifton Park requires updated facilities to serve its large and diverse population effectively.

There is an urgent need for renovation across New York's public libraries. A recent survey identified over $1.75 billion required for construction and renovation projects statewide. Many library buildings are aging; over half are more than 60 years old while another third exceed three decades. Challenges such as accessibility for users with disabilities, energy inefficiency, inadequate wiring for technology needs, and insufficient space are common.

“I’m happy to announce the distribution of these funds to the Ballston Spa and Clifton Park communities, which will serve a diverse population of individuals,” said Walsh.“Libraries are for everyone, and as a library lover myself, I’m excited to see these projects come to fruition.”

Walsh added her confidence that these improvements would meet current community needs while laying groundwork for future growth: “I am confident these improvements will not only meet the current needs of our community but also lay the foundation for continued growth and innovation. By investing in our public spaces, we are investing in the continued growth of our community for generations to come.”