STATE LIBRARIAN ANNOUNCES PUBLIC LIBRARY CONSTRUCTION GRANTS

New York State Librarian and Assistant Commissioner for Libraries, Bernard A. Margolis, announced that the New York State Library has awarded 240 matching Public Library Construction Grants to public libraries and public library systems for 2008-09. Fifty-nine grants are supported by $777,101 in local assistance funds and 181 grants are supported by $14 million in capital funds appropriated in the 2008 State Budget for construction and renovation of public library and public library system buildings in New York State.

A list of those libraries and library systems receiving matching grants under each grant program can be accessed at here. Project activities and expenditures eligible for such grants include financing construction of new library buildings, construction of additions to existing buildings, and the renovation and/or rehabilitation of existing space, including roof replacement, purchase and installation of alternative energy resources and new HVAC systems, windows, doors, and lighting systems, electrical upgrades, and construction of new or replacement of old walkways and parking lots, among other things. New furniture, shelving and equipment, including computer equipment, can be purchased for new or newly reconfigured or renovated space. Renovations designed to provide accessibility for patrons with disabilities is a high priority.

There is a documented need of more than $2.2 billion for public library construction and renovation in New York State. The proposed 2009 Executive Budget includes $14 million in capital funds for the Public Library Construction Grant Program for 2009-2010.

Please contact Grace Kelly at the New York State Library's Division of Library Development at 518/474-4883 or gkelly@mail.nysed.gov for more information on the Public Library Construction Grant Program or visit the New York State Library website.

NBER Economic Indicators and Releases

From the J J Hill Library:

Economics can be intimidating. First, of course, there's the math. But also, it can be hard to track the numerous things that go into the "economics equation." Unless you know about the NBER Economic Releases site.

This site pulls the latest economic reports, information, and updates from numerous government and trade sites and houses it all here. The site is updated daily, and most days see numerous postings. As of this writing some recent updates included: metro area unemployment, American time use, and construction spending.

No non-economist out there will use everything on this site, but if you take a look I bet you'll find something of interest to your line of work. And the NBER can help you keep up-to-date on it.

APL Sets Ambitious Goals for Minority/Women Hiring for Branch Improvement Plan

As you probably know, Albany Public Library is building five new and renovated libraries. What you may not have heard yet is that the APL board has set ambitious goals for minority and women hiring for the construction phase of the $29.1 million project.

APL is proud to announce that the board voted unanimously to set a combined goal of 20% for both minority and women business and workforce participation.