Construction is in progress as upgrades are made to the Keene Valley Library. (Photo provided)

KEENE VALLEY – The Keene Valley Library Association recently announced it has received a $25,000 grant from the Cloudsplitter Foundation. These funds will support the library’s $1.5 million Securing the Future capital campaign and revitalize the library’s historic facility for the 21st century.

The Cloudsplitter Foundation works to improve the physical and cultural environment in the Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York and to make life healthier and more rewarding for the people who live here. The Keene Valley Library acts as a community hub for the Town of Keene’s residents and visitors, hosting more than 200 events annually.

The capital campaign will transform the library’s 19th century building, and enable it to flourish for years to come. While preserving the architectural heritage of the 1896 building, renovations modernize aging infrastructure to ensure energy efficiency and structural integrity. An update to the children’s reading room has been completed; new meeting areas, study areas, upgraded technology, and a Makerspace will be completed in 2018.

In this community-driven effort, the majority of capital campaign donations came from individual donations. Additional support comes from New York State grants and private foundations. Donations are still being accepted at the capital campaign’s website, kvlacc.org.

“The Cloudsplitter Foundation’s contribution for our capital campaign gives us tremendous momentum to reach our fundraising goal and secure the library’s future,” said KVLA Director Karen Glass. “Their support to our project and others throughout the Adirondacks is vital to building successful, sustainable communities.”

In 2016, the Cloudsplitter Foundation made major grants to 33 organizations and distributed $1,188,721 in total gifts to organizations working throughout the Adirondack Mountains.

“From sharing books, to history, to cups of tea, the Keene Valley Library isn’t just a library; it’s an epicenter for the community,” said Cloudsplitter Foundation Director Chenille Palyswiat. “Cloudsplitter sees a lot of value in that, and is pleased to partner with Keene Valley Library at this very exciting time for them.”