Albany Public Library Foundation outlines past projects, urges council support for Carnegie branch accessibility upgrades

Richard Engelman, president of the Albany Public Library Foundation, briefed the Albany City Council at the Feb. 24 work session about the foundation’s history and its interest in supporting accessibility upgrades at the Carnegie branch.

Engelman said the foundation — formed in 1992 when the Carnegie branch faced possible closure — has an endowment that has underwritten repairs (windows, heating, painting), additions (air conditioning, screens) and museum‑style repairs such as the clock near the reference desk. He said the foundation also makes regular contributions for library acquisitions across the system and does not generally “come here to ask you for money, but one that comes here to give you money for the greater good.”

Looking forward, Engelman said the Carnegie branch is not fully accessible and that adding an elevator to reach both floors and improving restrooms would allow the branch to host exhibits, talks and events and make the building safer for staff and patrons. He said the foundation is willing to pursue grants and partner on projects but that it will need council support should a major renovation proceed.

Councilor Newton Azor and other councilors thanked Engelman and noted the foundation’s support for the broader library system. Staff and councilors confirmed Library Uncorked — a primary fundraiser mentioned during the presentation — is scheduled for March 1 at about 5:30 p.m. at the main library; tickets were said to be available at both libraries and online.