Workers complete accessibility project at Coburn Free Library in Owego

OWEGO, N.Y. — Crews have completed accessibility improvements at the Coburn Free Library as part of the state’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) in the village of Owego in Tioga County.

All floors of the library are now fully accessible to all members of the community with the installation of a new elevator, expanded community space, and a new ADA-compliant restroom, the New York State Department of State (DOS) announced Monday.

ADA is short for the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

“Public libraries play a vital role in our downtowns across the state, often serving as gathering spaces and providing critical information and connections for community members,” New York Secretary of State Rossana Rosado said in a release. “Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, the Coburn Free Library will now be able to better serve all residents and visitors to Owego, benefitting the entire region.”

Owego was a DRI third round winner. The Coburn Free Library is located at 275 Main St. in downtown Owego.

DOS awarded the project $300,000 to construct an elevator system providing access to all floors of the library. The construction included building a 1,200-square-foot annex with an elevator shaft and system. The work included required electrical connections, necessary modifications to the building, expanded community space, and an accessible restroom on the main level, DOS said.

The New York State Education Department also awarded the project a $100,000 New York State library construction grant.

“The newly completed accessibility annex provides a clever mix of new technology and original 1900s architecture,” Meredith Gallaro, executive director of the Coburn Free Library, said. “The goal was to provide up-to-date accessibility while respecting the charm of the original building. We are grateful to every supporter of the annex project. This project, long-dreamed-of and long-awaited, is a triumph for our downtown area. With excitement and gratitude, we are pleased to announce that the magic of this wonderful library is now accessible by all.”