LOUISVILLE, Ky. — New financial support is on the way for Louisville parks and libraries. The Louisville Metro Government is using $25 million from the American Rescue Plan to help revitalize these community spaces.

David Swift spends his day at the library working on crossword puzzles and keeping himself busy. 

“We’ve got a plug-in over here: charge it up, charge my phones up and I got a battery pack I charge up so when I go to the Salvation Army I can watch TV, movies,” Swift said. 

Swift is homeless, but he said the library gives him a space to spend the day.

“I got puzzles and stuff to do," Swift said. "I start reading a book; I read a couple chapters and stuff.”

Soon, however, the Main Library and three other Louisville Free Public Library branches will be renovated. Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg announced funding Dec. 19 for renovations at four library branches and park and recreation maintenance. 

“The more we invest in our parks and libraries," Greenberg said, "the stronger our parks and libraries are; the stronger, the safer, the healthier our cities will be; the stronger and safer and healthier our kids will be and neighborhoods will be." 

Former State Rep. Attica Scott raised her children in the Parkland neighborhood and said it would have been a major help to have a nearby library.

“For other kids who are growing up here today, this is huge," Scott said. "For them to be able to go here, get homework, help, get help with the SAT, ACT, etc."

Swift said he appreciates being able to use the library. 

“I come here; I enjoy the environment," Swift said. 

In addition to the $15 million for the libraries, $10 million will be used for deferred maintenance for parks and recreation, including an additional $2 million for upgrades at Algonquin and Norton pools.

According to city officials, the Parkland Library is expected to open in 2025.