Vermont libraries secure federal funds for repairs
Thirty-two Vermont public libraries will receive grants ranging from $60,000 to $400,000 for building repairs and improvements. The Vermont Department of Libraries announced the Public Facilities Preservation Initiative Grant awards Oct. 30, according to a community announcement. Libraries in 11 counties received awards through the program, which attracted 59 applications. The grants will fund capital projects needed to maintain, repair or improve existing public library buildings. The projects can address needs including deferred maintenance, safety, energy efficiency and accessibility. Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development FY2023 Economic Initiative Community Project Funding program. The Vermont Department of Libraries is administering the grants. The funding provides capital project subgrants for public library buildings owned by municipalities or incorporated public libraries. All Vermont public libraries were eligible to apply. “The Department of Libraries is thrilled to support capital improvements to public libraries, which are crucial community resources,” State Librarian and Commissioner of Libraries Catherine Delneo said. “This is an exceptional opportunity for Vermont, because federal funding of this nature is rarely available.” The Vermont Department of Libraries is part of the Vermont Agency of Administration and supports libraries across the state in providing patrons access to quality information.
