Washington, DC – U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $150,000 in federal funding for the Southern Tier Library System (STLS) in Allegany, Steuben, Yates, Schuyler, and Chemung counties. The funding was allocated by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and will allow the STLS to upgrade existing fiber infrastructure that delivers broadband internet capabilities connecting 21 of its public libraries in the five-county region.
“Investing in the Southern Tier’s internet access is a smart move that enhances access to information and broadband for area residents and will pay dividends for years to come,” said Senator Schumer. “This funding will give the Southern Tier Library System the resources it needs to improve internet access for the benefit of visitors and employees alike.”
“This is a major investment for the Southern Tier,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Reliable, fast internet access isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity in the 21st century economy. These federal funds will allow the Southern Tier Library System to upgrade their broadband capabilities so children and families have more online access at their local library. ”
“The Southern Tier Library System is thrilled to receive this support through the Appalachian Regional Commission. It will empower 270,000 rural residents with broadband access that exceeds New York State standards through their local public library. It is just one of many ways our libraries level the playing field to educational, cultural, technological and economic opportunity. Ultimately, this will strengthen the quality of life in the Southern Tier,” said Brian M. Hildreth, Executive Director of Southern Tier Library System.
Last year, Senator Gillibrand introduced the Broadband Connections for Rural Opportunities Program Act, bipartisan legislation that would help close the broadband gap in rural areas to help ensure that all New Yorkers have access to high-speed Internet. The legislation would allow for federal grants of up to 50 percent of a project’s cost, and up to 75 percent for remote, high-need areas, to be awarded in combination with loan funding already available through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities Service. This legislation also doubles the authorized funding for the Rural Utilities Service’s Broadband programs to $50 million per fiscal year.
