Senator James Skoufis (D-Woodbury) presented the Sarah Hull Hallock Free Library (SHHFL) in Milton with a grant of $60,000 on Monday. The funding will enable installation of a new child-friendly and ADA-supportive circulation desk, and an accessible, custom-designed vestibule for the library’s southernmost entrance on Main Street.

These important upgrades to improve library patron access are essential to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, and the first steps toward reconfiguring the children’s section. SHHFL leadership plans to relocate and upgrade the children’s reading section to the southern end of the building, adjacent to the new circulation desk. This close proximity brings staff members within easy reach to serve its youngest patrons, while providing more room for children to explore the collection.

“I’m thrilled to support the evolution of Milton’s hometown library with this funding,” said Skoufis. “Library leadership worked diligently to modify their operations in compliance with COVID-19 safety guidelines over the past year and a half, ensuring local kids and families were still able to nurture their love of reading. Access to state funding is vital for small libraries like the SHHFL, and it’s my pleasure to help the library continue to grow and meet the needs of its community in years to come.”

“Incorporated in 1887, our historic library has been in the heart of the hamlet of Milton – literally and figuratively -- for generations,” said Lois Heiser Skelly, SHHFL Director. “On behalf of the Sarah Hull Hallock Free Library, I want to thank Senator Skoufis for his visits to our library to learn in person about our library’s needs and plans. The $60,000 grant we have received supports our mission to better serve our community today and into the future.”

The grant will be administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York. Skoufis is committed to ensuring local libraries remain a welcoming and viable community resource.