Libraries pleading for state help
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- March
- 31
Public libraries need greater state funding, say the librarians who run these institutions, and these professionals hope library users help them convince state officials to restore $5 million in library aid.
Librarians throughout the state are emphasizing that public library use jumps during tough economic times — and that trend of increased library use has already begun. People are coming in to renew their cards, check out what the library offers and try out some services, librarians in the lower Hudson Valley report.
The librarians have joined forces through the New York Library Association in urging, basically pleading, the State Legislature and the new Governor to restore $5 million in library aid. The point is to keep libraries open the same number of hours and to be able to offer the services and reading materials to the neediest in their communities.
“When the public’s buying power shrinks and household expenses grow, people tend to rely more on their public libraries for free reading materials and services, like literacy programs and computer training,” Michael Borges, NYLA’s Executive Director said in a release. “That’s why restoring the critical state Library Aid is so important this year.”
Borges continued: “We understand that times are tough for everyone, including state and local government, but a mere $5 million in the state budget will have many positive ripple effects including helping public libraries meet an increasing demand and allowing library districts to keep potential property tax increases down, something local taxpayers can certainly appreciate.”
Borges also said that a January Zogby poll showed that a majority of New Yorkers support continued increases in state aid for libraries despite uncertain economic times. “In fact, 82 percent of New Yorkers support more state funding for purchasing more and updated library books,” he said.
Let your librarians know you support them and let your elected state officials know that you want their help.
This entry was posted
on Monday, March 31st, 2008 at 4:19 pm by Barbara Nackman.
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A municipal reporter for The Journal News since 1997, 
