Broome County Library Reading Garden

If you enjoy reading, then perhaps the only thing better than a good book is enjoying it in the warm sunshine. A $50,000 grant secured by Assemblywoman Lupardo helped with construction of the Broome County Library Reading Garden, an outdoor urban green space for library visitors to enjoy. Adjacent to the main library building, the garden features landscaping, seating, and a pavilion that is also utilized for community classes and lectures.

George F. Johnson Memorial Library Tech Center

Libraries are quickly becoming more than just a spot for reading – they are community gathering spaces providing access to important resources. The George F. Johnson Memorial Library in Endicott has been offering digital literacy information out of their Tech Center since it first opened in 2011, helping patrons keep up with the ever-changing landscape of technology. In November 2023, the Library was able to expand those capabilities with the purchase of nine new laptops funded by a $10K grant from Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo. Coupled with their Tech 360 and Digital Navigator Programs, this significantly expanded GFJ Library’s capacity to offer computer training, resources, and information to help close the digital divide.

Vestal Public Library Young Adult Section

Located right down the hill from Vestal High School, the Vestal Public Library has long served as an after school hang out spot for students. With a $10K Assembly grant secured by Assemblywoman Lupardo, the Library was able to create a dedicated young adult section for their teenaged patrons. The grant funded the purchase of new furniture, bean bags, and a high-top media table with outlets to charge devices. The grand opening in June of 2023 came just in time for the youngsters to use the space to study for their upcoming Regents exams.