OGDENSBURG -- A state grant from Assemblymember Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, will pay for accessibility improvements at Ogdensburg Public Library.

“Libraries bring communities together with new events, activities, and opportunities for learning,” Russell said. “It is important to me to support our local libraries and ensure they remain accessible to everyone.”

The $125,000 grant from the Community Capital Assistance Program will enable the library to upgrade for patrons who are unable to climb stairs, an issue that’s plagued the facility since their elevator broke down earlier in the year, Russell said.

“This is going to be absolutely wonderful,” Ogdensburg Public Library Executive Director Penny J. Kerfien said. “The people I’ve talked with are absolutely thrilled, and I’m thrilled for them.”

The grant will see the elevator repaired, allowing all visitors to explore the library for themselves. Additionally, the library’s aging and deteriorating ramp on the building’s west side will be replaced by an accessibility lift. The lift will be enclosed and heated so users will be sheltered from North Country winters.

“Besides helping our patrons get in and out of the library with ease, the lift will be user friendly,” Kerfien said.

Construction on the upgrades are expected to begin in a couple of weeks, Russell said.