Darby Library asks borough to submit $1 million state grant application for Phase 2 renovations

The Darby Library formally requested that Darby Borough submit a PA Local Share Account (LSA) grant application on its behalf to fund Phase 2 of a planned renovation.

In a written request to borough council, Anthony Santoro, president of the Darby Library Board of Directors, said the library will handle grant writing and project management but requires a municipal sponsor for the application. The letter states: "The application deadline is November 30, 2025." The request lists a $1,000,000 project ask to support interior renovations aimed at expanded programming, a dedicated children's library and upgrades to building systems.

The library's project report described progress on Phase 1 construction — foundation repair, elevator-tower foundation work, relocated utilities, a new water line and broadband service — and said Phase 2 work will focus on interior reconfiguration, insulation, new lighting, HVAC and solar installations once funding is secured. The board emphasized that Phase 1 stabilizes the structure but does not include substantial interior upgrades that the community needs for job training, early-childhood education and digital-literacy programming.

If the borough agrees to sponsor the application, the library will proceed with the grant submission by the Nov. 30 deadline and will manage the project's day-to-day administration if funded.