NYS Library Construction Aid: Project Eligibility

Any public library or public library system chartered by the NYS Regents or established by an act of the NYS Legislature is eligible to apply for State Aid for Library Construction.

Having trouble getting started on your construction grant narratives?  Looking for a contractor?  Wondering what types of projects are eligible or been approved in the past?

Check out these past construction grant projects:

• Previous construction projects approved by DLD
• Past construction projects submitted to NCLS

The following project types ARE eligible for NYS Library Construction Aid:

• New construction
• Reconstruction, restoration, rehabilitation, remodeling, refurbishing
• Broadband installation
• Site acquisition
• New furniture, equipment, computers, and shelving for new or newly reconfigured space
• Electric (emergency) generators
• Permanent signage
• Security systems
• Assistive listening devices and systems
• Non-speculative architectural and engineering plans for approved projects

For more information about project eligibility, please visit State Aid for Library Construction FAQ.

This program provides funding to cover costs for eligible construction projects. 

All NYS chartered libraries are eligible for funding up to 50%, with the library providing a 50% match.

Projects in economically disadvantaged communities are eligible for funding up to 75% of project costs, with the library providing a 25% match.

As of 2019, projects in economically distressed communities are eligible for funding up to 90% of project costs, with the library providing a 10% match.

NCLS encourages libraries to plan for matching funds of 50% with the understanding that they may receive a greater than 50% match from the state.

For more information on matching funds, visit State Aid for Library Construction FAQ.