Construction: Home

Welcome!  This guide is a collection of information needed to develop and submit an application for funding to the Public Library Construction Aid Program.

The application portal is open!

PROCEDURE CHANGE: Do NOT submit FS-10 forms with your initial application.  Wait to print and sign them (in blue ink) AFTER the official award notification has been received from DLD.

• Main NYS Construction Page – https://www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/construc
• Application Instructions - https://www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/construc/application
• Application Portal Link – eservices.nysed.gov/ldgrants/index.jsp
  • To request a username/password- https://eservices.nysed.gov/ldgrants/ldgext/diRegistration.do

• Minimum project cost is $5,000
• All projects are eligible for 50% - 75% award
  • Libraries that serve an economically disadvantaged community* are eligible for an award up to 90% 
  • See guidelines for criteria
  • Funding of projects will be dependent on the total number of applications received and the total allocation from the state.
• Expenses incurred after July 1 of the application year are eligible, but the project must not be completed before the application due date
• Projects for buildings that are 50 years old or older, must receive clearance from the NYS Historic Preservation Office (SHPO).
• Libraries that do not own their buildings must provide documentation of a minimum 10-year lease or occupancy agreement

4CLS's allotment for 2025-2026 is $1,221,9337.   

The application window for this round of construction aid has closed.  The next window will open in June 2026, depending on the New York State budget.