Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush (R,C–Black River) today announced that two libraries will receive a combined $349,216 in state funding through the New York State Aid for Library Construction Program, supporting critical building repairs and infrastructure upgrades that will strengthen community access to library services across the North Country.

“Our local libraries are more than just buildings, they are community hubs that provide education, connectivity, and vital services for residents of all ages,” said Blankenbush. “This funding will help ensure that our libraries remain safe, accessible and functional for years to come, while preserving important community institutions in the North Country.”

Libraries receiving funding in Assemblyman Blankenbush’s district include:

• Hepburn Library of Edwards (St. Lawrence County) will receive $312,521 to replace the building’s boiler, rehabilitate existing exterior windows, repoint stonework and mortar, and reinforce the building’s foundation at its location on 205 Main Street in Edwards.
• William H. Bush Memorial Library (Lewis County) will receive $36,695 to reconstruct its parking lot to address drainage issues and renovate the kitchenette area at 5605 Whitaker Road in Martinsburg.

Blankenbush thanks local library staff and volunteers for their dedication, as well as the New York State Library for its technical assistance in reviewing and strengthening project applications.

“Investments like these help protect taxpayer dollars while supporting the institutions our communities rely on every day,” Blankenbush added. “I’m proud to support programs that deliver real, tangible benefits back home.”