Public libraries in Canton, Norfolk, Waddington, Morristown and Norwood will be receiving more than $143,000 in public library construction funds to make upgrades to their facilities.

State Sen. Patty Ritchie, R-Heuvelton, made the announcement to her constituents, which include people in northwestern St. Lawrence County.

The libraries in the county receiving the money are:

• Canton Free Library, $9,415

• Hepburn Library of Norfolk, $14, 910

• Hepburn Library of Waddington, $5,769

• Morristown Public Library, $79,065

• Norwood Public Library, $34,157

Ritchie, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Libraries, said libraries are being used more in her district “by people across our region for everything from job hunting resources to checking out today’s bestsellers.”

“Our libraries are centers of our communities, and I’m pleased to see them receiving this support, which will allow them to make much-needed improvements to better serve those who utilize them,” Ritchie said.

The funding announced today is part of a $14 million capital fund for public library construction in the 2014-2015 state budget for energy efficiency upgrades, handicapped accessibility and features to enhance the delivery of services.