SF1661

This bill proposes renaming Minnesota's library construction grant program as the Mary C. Murphy Library Construction Grants Program and amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 134.45.

Key provisions include:

• Eligibility: Public library jurisdictions (regional library systems, library districts, cities, and counties) can apply for grants for improvements, accessibility, renovations, or library construction.
• Grant Uses: Funds can be used for:
  • Removing architectural barriers for accessibility.
  • Renovating or expanding existing library buildings.
  • Constructing new library buildings.
• Matching Funds: Public library jurisdictions must match grant funds with local funds.
• Grant Limits:
  • Up to $450,000 (or 50%) for accessibility improvements.
  • Up to $1,000,000 (or 50%) for general improvements, expansions, or new construction.
• Internet Use Policy: Libraries must adopt a policy prohibiting the use of their internet access for obscene material to qualify for grants.
• Grant Distribution: The Commissioner of Education, in consultation with the State Council on Disability, will approve or deny applications, prioritize projects, and allocate grants based on factors such as need, tax burden, collaboration, feasibility, and suitability.
• Library Property Sales: If a public library funded with state bond proceeds is no longer needed, it may be sold at fair market value with state approval. Proceeds must be used first to repay the state and second for the local or regional library jurisdiction.

Finally, the statute is formally renamed the Mary C. Murphy Library Construction Grants Program.