Somers, NY - New York State Senator Pete Harckham announced today that the Somers Public Library is expanding its space devoted to teenagers thanks to a $50,000 grant he delivered.

“Libraries like the Somers Public Library are cornerstones of our community, especially for young people,” Harckham said. “For local teens, it’s more than a place to borrow books. It’s a safe, welcoming space to learn, explore new ideas, and build skills that will serve them for a lifetime.”

The grant is in addition to the $210,000 that Harckham said was earmarked in the FY 2024-25 State Budget for the Somers Public Library for capital construction.

Somers Library Director Jessica Veissy said: “The New York State Construction Grant will significantly support and enhance the Somers Library’s teen area by creating a modern, flexible space that meets the growing demand for teen services, including dedicated programming space, a homework area, and a welcoming place for teens to simply be. The redesigned area will also be able to transform into a meeting space, similar to the current conference room in that area of the library.” 

“The Somers Library Board of Trustees is truly grateful for this additional financial support for our Teen Room renovation project,” said Brian Schnapper, president of the Library Board. “This money that has been granted to the Somers Library will be added to the other funds raised and allow us to complete this very impactful project for the Somers community.”

The Library is enhancing its teen offerings by updating and expanding the Teen Room to create a more welcoming and functional space for local middle and high school students. 

Harckham’s grant helped purchase new doors and windows for the space. The grant was funded through the New York State Community Resiliency, Economic Sustainability, and Technology (CREST) program.  

Since taking office in 2019, Harckham has delivered more than $35 million in State Senate grant funding to municipalities, first responders and nonprofits in his 40th Senate District.