Gov. Andrew Cuomo has worked hard to make New York state a champion of progressive policies that provides critical services to all New Yorkers. Unfortunately, the proposed five million dollar reductions in funding for New York’s libraries in the Governor’s proposed 2021 budget once again fails to recognize the vital role that libraries play in every community.
Libraries are the fabric the weaves our communities together. For example, in 1999, less than one-third of public libraries had a publicly accessible computer – and today nearly every public library is the primary source of access to the internet for nearly a quarter of households earning below $50,000 annually.
Furthermore, in the world of increased technological connectedness, it is even more imperative to have libraries serve as a center for social interactions that are filled with culture, learning, and acceptance. In addition, libraries are also being increasingly called upon to assist the state government in its initiatives such as the upcoming 2020 Census.
Despite the rapidly evolving function of libraries in meeting the needs of all New Yorkers, Governor Cuomo has proposed Library Aid at just one percent above where it had been funded TWO DECADES earlier in 1999.
In addition, Cuomo has proposed a $20 million cut in Library Construction Aid. More than 50 percent of the public libraries are over 60 years old. Without state support, our libraries cannot make critical upgrades in their technological infrastructure and energy efficiency while meeting other pressing capital needs.
We urge Gov. Cuomo and the Legislature to take action on behalf of our libraries. They need to make bold new investments in our libraries to provide them with the needed resources to provide all New Yorkers with 21st-century library services.
Libraries are a cornerstone of New York’s education and civic infrastructure. Library usage and demand for services are surging statewide. As true champions of progressive policies, Governor Cuomo and the NYS legislature must increase investment in libraries.
Join us in speaking up for our libraries, write the Governor and your legislators by signing up as a library champion at www.nyla.org/advocacy.
Sima Vasa and Bill Keller
Port Washington