OXFORD – With ceremonial shovels in hand, NYS Senator Thomas Libous and other local dignitaries assisted the Oxford Memorial Library board of trustees break ground Thursday on the next phase of the library’s capital improvement project.

“It’s great to see a community come together to support something so worthwhile,” said Libous, who Trustee Bill Troxell credited with securing $75,000 in Senate funding for the project. “It’s exciting for me to see that there is support and enthusiasm for (this library).”

The third phase of the library’s building project involves construction of a new addition to the historic structure.

“The new space will be about 1,100 square feet,” Troxell reported. The addition will house space for youth programs and community meetings, he explained. Space on the library’s second floor is currently being used for these purposes, but according to the trustee, it often becomes too crowded.

The addition will also allow for greater accessibility for disabled patrons. The handicap ramp located at the rear of the library will be replaced with an interior lift, Troxell said, which will allow access from the basement to the second floor.

The plans also include a new kitchenette and pantry, as well as a new rear entrance, he reported.