Kays: '$6.5 million will go a long way in helping the library improve services and access to the community'

Government
1200 library bookshelves
A Building Forward Grant will help fund renovations at the Palm Springs Public Library. | Elastic Compute Farm/Pixabay

The Palm Springs Public Library will receive $6.5 million in upgrades thanks to a Building Forward Grant awarded by the California State Library.

The grant will help fund a number of renovations including a new paint job, roof, windows, and more, according to a press release from the city of Palm Springs. Purchases for necessary upgrades include the following: a new backup generator, fire/sprinkler system, air filtration system, and security alarm system. The grant also will fund renovations to locks, doors, carpeting, floors, plumbing, lighting, and signage compliant with the Americans With Disabilities Act.

"This $6.5 million will go a long way in helping the library improve services and access to the community," Jeannie Kays, director of library services for the city, said in the press release. "We are extremely thankful to the California State Library for recognizing the need and approving this important project, which will positively impact our Palm Springs community for generations to come."

The California State Library has doled out more than $254 million in grants to 234 libraries across the Golden State, according to its website. The Building Forward Grant is distributed to libraries facing "life-safety and critical maintenance needs in high poverty areas." Grants have been given to libraries in 172 cities in 34 counties across the state. 

The Palm Springs Public Library is located at 300 S. Sunrise Way, the press release noted. It is open on Mondays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.