SALISBURY, MD – Wicomico County is pleased to announce that the Maryland Board of Public Works has approved a $3,353,000 grant through the County Library Capital Project Grant Program to support the renovation of the former Ward Museum building and transform it into the future home of the Paul S. Sarbanes Library at Schumaker Pond.
The funding was approved during the Board of Public Works meeting on June 18, 2026, as part of a statewide investment in public library infrastructure. The grant represents a significant step forward in Wicomico County’s efforts to modernize library services and provide residents with enhanced educational, technological, and community resources.
“This investment is a tremendous win for Wicomico County and for the thousands of residents who rely on our public library system every year,” said County Executive Julie Giordano. “The future Paul S. Sarbanes Branch will provide expanded opportunities for learning, workforce development, technology access and community engagement while preserving and repurposing an important community asset.”
The project will renovate the former Ward Museum facility to create a modern library space capable of meeting the evolving needs of county residents. The upgraded branch will offer improved accessibility, expanded programming space, enhanced technology infrastructure and additional resources for children, families, students and lifelong learners.
The County Executive expressed appreciation to the Maryland Board of Public Works, the Maryland State Library Agency, the Wicomico Public Library Board of Trustees, Library Executive Director Carrie Samis, and the many local and state partners who supported the project and advocated for the funding.
“Public libraries are among the most valuable investments a community can make,” Giordano said. “They as centers for education, innovation, workforce training and civic engagement. This grant ensures that Wicomico County residents will have access to a modern facility that can serve our community for generations to come.”
Additional information regarding project timelines and construction planning will be released as the project moves forward.
Maryland is looking at another 3 to 4 billion in debt and we get an upgraded library only the homeless and trannies use! lovely! stop the insanity!
On a piece of property donated to the college, to remain a museum, only to be swindled and horse traded. All because the college and county have an agenda.
How many people use libraries today? Everyone I know uses the internet! (Except for homeless people and child molesters.)