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A guide to the New York State Public Library Construction Aid Program

Welcome & Overview

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.

  • Minimum project cost is $5,000
  • 50% local match is required
    • Libraries that serve an economically disadvantaged community are eligible for a reduced local march (25%)
  • 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 has not been determined! 

Intent to Apply Form

Program Priorities

  • Increased effectiveness of library service due to increased and/or improved building space and capacity
  • More efficient utilization of the library building resulting in such economies as energy conservation and increased staff efficiency.
  • Improved access to and use of building services by all library users, including those with physical disabilities
  • Provision of library services to geographically isolated or economically disadvantaged communities

Timeline - Updated for 2025 - Cintingent on state budget passage

Construction Aid Application Timeline - (review schedule is approximate)

  • May 22- Construction Aid Webinar - Register Here
  • June 9 - Intent to Apply Forms due to 4CLS
  • June 13 - Preliminary award notices sent
  • Mid June - Application Portal Opens
  • August 29 - Applications due (through portal)
  • Sept-Oct - 4CLS review of applications
  • October - March - DLD review of applications
  • April- August - DASNY review of applications
  • August-September - Official award notices sent
  • September - October - 90% of award sent directly to libraries
  • Work must begin 180 days after official notification

This timeline includes several rough estimates.  The DLD and DASNY reviews occur on their own schedules.

4CLS Webinar

2025 Construction Aid Webinar - Thursday, May 22, 2 PM

Register Here

NYS Library Webinar (2024)

4CLS Guidelines & Procedures

4CLS Director