The New York State Library has awarded more than $80,000 in grants to libraries in Putnam and Westchester for adult education programs focusing on literacy, basic test preparation, computer skills, career counseling and services for new immigrants and domestic violence victims.

The grants are part of $400,000 that will be awarded to support Adult Literacy Library Services initiatives over the next two years. In the Lower Hudson Valley, grants were awarded to the Mahopac Public Library, White Plains Public Library and Westchester Library System.

Visit http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/literacy/index.html for information on the program. Here are the details for our local libraries.

Mahopac Public Library will receive $29,659 for its Opening Doors: Workforce Empowerment through Literacy Education. The library will partner with Putnam/Northern Westchester Women’s Resource Center and Literacy Volunteers of Putnam County to deliver workshops for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Clients will develop literacy and computer skills, job search strategies and interview skills.

Westchester Library System will use a $30,534 grant to fund Welcoming New Americans @ Your Library. Through pilot projects in Mamaroneck (2007-08) and Peekskill (2008-09), immigrants will have access to English classes, citizenship preparation, and information and referral services. United Way of Westchester and Putnam’s Volunteer Center and Literacy Volunteers of Westchester will help recruit and train volunteers.

White Plains Public Library will host a Literacy for Life program with a $19,871 grant. Targeted toward a growing immigrant population, the libraries will offer English classes and use interactive learning software and life skills workshops to supplement education programs.