"The New York State Library serves over 7000 libraries across the state. Through the Grants to States program the State Library serves all New Yorkers by championing lifelong learning and providing statewide programs and services such as Summer Reading at New York Libraries and Ready to Read at New York Libraries. The State Library also promotes diversity, equity and inclusion; digital inclusion efforts; and professional development for library staff and trustees. Through partnerships with regional library systems, offices within the State Education Department, other government agencies and other organizations the State Library demonstrates excellence in public services, strengthens community engagement and advances collections stewardship."
-- Lauren Moore, State Librarian

Summer Reading at New York Libraries 
The New York State Library (NYSL)'s Summer Reading at New York Libraries is an annual project with three goals: to improve literacy and academic performance by promoting reading; to improve children's access to library materials and activities that encourage them to become lifelong library users and learners; and to foster a love of reading in young people through public library programs and services. The grant supported themed materials, staff time to coordinate the program and maintain related websites, and an online product to facilitate registration and participation. Partners in recent years included 4-H, Hunger Solutions New York, Cornell Cooperative Extension, New York State Reading Association, and the New York State Senate and Assembly. 
IMLS Funds: $181,010 

Ready to Read at New York Libraries 
Ready to Read at New York Libraries is a statewide early literacy program coordinated by the New York State Library (NYSL). It is designed to raise the level of early literacy expertise and resources that New York's public libraries provide to young children, families, and caregivers in their communities. During the project period, professional development opportunities shifted to virtual formats and included Supercharged Storytimes for All sessions and webinars featuring early literacy practitioners and experts in the field. In addition to training, NYSL staff created and maintained the DayByDayNY family literacy calendar site, which includes a subscription to One More Story, and provided 450 consultations during the grant period. 
IMLS Funds: $107,402 

Digital Inclusion
Using CARES Act stimulus funds, the New York State Library (NYSL) provided state-level leadership to advance digital equity and inclusion efforts. Together with other state government agencies, NYSL staff worked to ensure that New Yorkers had access to affordable, robust broadband internet service as well as the devices, training, and support needed to fully benefit from online opportunities. During the project period, NYSL and its partners offered three Digital Equity Summits for library professionals and other representatives that culminated in a report to inform next steps. Additionally, the NYSL supported a broadband infrastructure needs and technology assessment pilot to gauge feasibility for a standard assessment of library IT infrastructure statewide. 
IMLS Funds: $123,598