Bizzarro, Merski, Harkins: Millcreek public library receives $25,000 grant

Will fund needs assessment and feasibility study for relocating branch

Rep. Ryan Bizzarro, Rep. Robert Merski, Rep. Patrick J. Harkins    November 12, 2020 | 4:51 PM

ERIE, Nov. 12 – A $25,000 state Keystone grant will fund a needs assessment and relocation feasibility study for the Erie County Public Library’s Millcreek branch, state Reps. Ryan Bizzarro, Bob Merski, and Pat Harkins, all D-Erie, announced today.

The lawmakers said the funding from the state Department of Education supports a beloved community resource.

“Millcreek Library has worked so hard to foster a love of books in our community,” Bizzarro said. “Even amidst the pandemic, they’ve served as a wonderful resource and continue to provide learning opportunities. This grant will help the library assess its needs so it can continue to enrich our community.”

Merski agreed, saying, “With the pandemic having such an isolating effect, it’s especially helpful for people to have a safe gathering place where they can go to search information, attend programs with their kids, or simply relax and interact with neighbors. Securing this funding is going to help the Millcreek branch determine how it can best expand and improve access to those resources.”


Harkins said, “Having an accessible community library with open doors is critical because it reminds people that despite how life has changed, there is a still safe, familiar harbor out there. The funding awarded today is an investment in a resource that provides help, hope and a place for people to share common ground.”

The grant is part of a package of $5.1 million in competitive grants to 18 public libraries statewide funded through the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund. Grantees can receive up to 50% of the funding needed to upgrade or rehabilitate public libraries.

More information about the grants, including the full list of awardees, is available here, and more information about the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund is available here.