NY S03706

Department of Education must conduct a study on public library and library system access to capital funding, in consultation with the dormitory authority, state comptroller, and public library systems.

Study must assess capital needs of public and association libraries over a five-year period and identify current and alternative financing options for capital projects.

Study must include analysis of dormitory authority financing practices over the past ten years, including application rates, denial rates and reasons, total project costs, and funding amounts provided.

Study must identify special needs, financing barriers, and provide recommendations for improving capital funding access for public libraries and library systems.

Study findings must be completed by January 1, 2023 and submitted to the governor, legislative leaders, relevant committees, and posted on the New York State Library website.