Assemblyman Michael Fitzpatrick (R,C,I-Smithtown) today announced the passage of legislation Friday that will open the door to financing for the Smithtown Special Library District construction project. Assemblyman Fitzpatrick introduced Assembly bill 417, which amends New York state law to include the Smithtown Special Library District among the list of public libraries eligible to receive assistance and financing from the New York State Dormitory Authority.

“This legislation ensures the Smithtown Special Library District is eligible for construction and financing assistance through the Dormitory Authority,” said Fitzpatrick. “Local residents are clearly overburdened by property taxes. This legislation makes certain that any library construction project is done in a cost-effective manner, while taking advantage of lower interest costs.”

The Smithtown Library and its branches identified space constraints and outdated technology as the underlying cause behind current service problems. Funding through the Dormitory Authority will help finance four construction projects in the district aimed at increasing floor area, updating technology, and increasing shelf space, including modification of the Nesconset armory for a new branch library.