Libraries in St. Lawrence County will receive funding from the state, according to Sen. Patty Ritchie’s office.

They are:

• Canton Free Library

• Hammond Free Library

• Hepburn Library of Edwards

• Hepburn Library of Hermon

• Hepburn Library of Lisbon

• Hepburn Library of Madrid

• Hepburn Library of Waddington

• Heuvelton Free Library

• Morley Library (Branch of Canton)

• Morristown Public Library

• Northern New York Library Network (NNLN)

• Ogdensburg Public Library

• Reading Room Association of Gouverneur

• Rensselaer Falls Library (Branch of Canton)

• Richville Free Library

These funds will allow libraries across the region to make upgrades to their facilities, improve technology and expand offerings for patrons, the announcement from Ritchie’s office says.

“Local libraries across our region are serving as a critical resource for not only our children, but for people of all ages. The services and programs they offer are in high demand, but without assistance they would not exist,” North Country Library System Director Susan Mitchell said in a prepared statement from Ritchie’s office. “Year after year, Senator Ritchie has provided the support and leadership that truly allows our libraries to make a true, positive impact in the communities they serve.”

“From upgrading buildings and technology, to buying new books and creating new programs for the community, this funding will allow local libraries to complete the projects or initiatives they have wanted to get done, but just could not afford,” Meg Backus, director of the Northern New York Library Network said in a prepared statement from Ritchie’s office. “We continue to be amazed at the support Senator Ritchie provides our local libraries, allowing them to enrich the lives of everyone they serve.”

“Libraries play a critical role in educating and enriching our local communities by not only offering the latest bestselling books, but also by hosting educational events, providing job searching resources and much more,” Ritchie said in a prepared statement. “I am pleased to deliver this funding, which will help make the services offered at our local libraries even better for the countless people who visit them.”