Freeport Memorial Library scores big to beat the heat

This summer has broken temperature records, and it’s no secret to those who ventured into the Freeport Memorial Library recently. Rather than finding a cool escape, patrons have been met with heat and stuffiness.

Relief is on the horizon.

In a significant boost for local library infrastructure, the Freeport Memorial Library is poised to benefit from over $300,000 in a state grant marked for the upgrade and replacement of the HVAC system in the West Building of the library.

Last year, the Freeport Memorial Library located at 144 W. Merrick Rd. took proactive steps to secure New York State Construction Aid for a vital project: the upgrade and replacement of the HVAC system in the west building. Just last week, the dedicated library staff received the exciting news that their grant application had been approved, granting them $302,015 towards this crucial project. The urgency of this upgrade is underscored by the current HVAC units in the west building, which are experiencing significant issues. Fortunately, work on the project is already underway, with the aim of completion by the end of September.

“The Library applied for New York State Construction Aid last year to upgrade and replace the HVAC system in our west building,” Library Director, Lee Ann Moltzen said. “We have just received notification that we were awarded $302,015 toward the cost of the project. “

The funding injection comes as part of the State Education Department’s statewide initiative, allocating $34 million to support construction and renovation projects in 197 public libraries across the state.

The announcement was made by Assemblyman of the 21st district, Brian Curran, who unveiled the allocation of state aid to aid construction undertakings at several local libraries.

“I am very pleased to announce that five of our local libraries will be receiving much-needed funds to renovate,” Curran said in a press release. “Local libraries are invaluable to our communities, as centers for not only reading but learning and exploration as well. Many happy memories are made in local libraries, and I cannot wait to see how they put these funds to great use to better our community.”

The $34 million financial assistance is drawn from a capital fund appropriation, which was endorsed in the 2022-2023 state budget. Among the libraries within the 21st Assembly District benefiting from this financial support are the Baldwin Public Library, Malverne Public Library, Rockville Centre Public Library, and Oceanside Public Library.

Commissioner Betty A. Rosa of the New York State Education Department celebrated the initiative, saying that the funds are poised to usher in various improvements aimed at enhancing library facilities and services.

“Thriving libraries are essential to thriving communities and to the well-being of all New Yorkers,” Rosa said in a press release. “Libraries give individuals the opportunity to learn, collaborate, gain new skills, and become active participants in their communities. This funding is not only critical to improving library infrastructure, but also to enriching the lives of New Yorkers in every region of the state.”

These enhancements encompass the creation of new library edifices, upgrading electrical infrastructure, modernizing computer technology, bolstering broadband capabilities, ensuring energy efficiency compliance, enhancing accessibility features, and providing versatile meeting spaces to cater to diverse community needs.

Stressing the educational significance of libraries in the state, Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young, Jr., underlined the pivotal role libraries play in facilitating lifelong learning opportunities for all New Yorkers. Young asserted that the substantial investment in library infrastructure is pivotal in maintaining the vibrancy and accessibility of public library buildings, thereby enabling them to effectively meet the evolving requirements of the communities they serve.

“Libraries are a critical part of New York’s educational infrastructure, ensuring that all New Yorkers have equitable access to lifelong learning opportunities,” Young Jr. said in a press release. “This capital investment keeps our public library buildings accessible and vibrant so that they can meet the evolving needs of our communities now and long into the future.”

The allocated funding not only aids in enhancing library infrastructure but also serves as a catalyst for enhancing the quality of life for New Yorkers across all regions.

A key emphasis is placed on renovations geared toward enhancing accessibility for patrons with disabilities. Additionally, projects aimed at extending library services to individuals living in economically disadvantaged and geographically isolated communities are given high priority.

“The Freeport Memorial Library has received construction aid for many projects over the years, including building our Tween Room, called Inn B Tween, a space dedicated to fifth and sixth graders,” Moltzen said.

The Freeport Memorial Library’s Inn B Tween room opened in 2021. Located adjacent to the children’s room, it provides a distinctive environment tailored to meet the unique needs of this transitional age group, effectively bridging the gap between childhood and adolescence. This room serves a crucial role in providing a welcoming space for these students to relax, socialize, and engage in specially designed programs. Funding for the Inn B Tween room was made possible through government construction aid.

The comprehensive upgrade entails the installation of three rooftop packaged HVAC units.

To expand coverage, the project will introduce two indoor air-handling units, ensuring that two rooms currently under-served by the existing system receive adequate climate control.

The upgrade also features the integration of new thermostatic temperature controls.

This comprehensive initiative marks a pivotal moment in enhancing the library’s infrastructure and its capacity to provide an optimal environment for the community it serves.

“Libraries rely on construction aid not only to build new spaces, but also to offset the cost of updating aging infrastructure,” Moltzen said.

The Freeport Memorial Library serves as a center for all, providing programs and services that meet the ever-changing needs of the Freeport community. For more information, visit FreeportLibrary.info.