Select Capital Region Libraries To Receive $10,000 Gift

There is nowhere on earth quite like a library. These massive buildings host more knowledge than a Harvard alumni, and more entertainment than Disneyworld.

Unfortunately, the Library system is failing. More and more people are electing not to read, and funding for these vital places is reaching an all time low. Luckily, the Capital Region's are about to get a little help.

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The Carnegie Corporation of New York

They may not be a more influential person to Libraries than Andrew Carnegie. The Scottish philanthropist was instrumental in bringing education to everyone across America by developing 1,681 free public libraries across the country in just 31 years.

Despite the fact that Carnegie himself is not around anymore, his foundation wants to continue his dream of spreading literature and knowledge to everyone, no matter who they are. It's through that drive that they will be helping out thousands of public libraries across America once again, including a few in New York's Capital region.

Carnegie's Gift for Libraries

In celebration of America's 250th anniversary in 2026, the Carnegie Corporation is setting aside $20 Million to support the country's civic institutions, and libraries are a big part of that. Libraries that are part of the Carnegie initiative will receive a $10,000 check on January 1st, 2026 to celebrate the 250th, benefit their community, or simply further their mission.

Eight Capital region libraries will be bestowed this honor: Amsterdam, Johnstown, Gloversville, Schenectady, Chatham, Catskill, Saugerties, and Kingston. What they choose to do with that money is up to them, but we can hope they'll use it to broaden their scope, and get the Capital Region reading again!