How important is the public library to you and your family? Action needed now!

Governor Proposes 4.7% cut in Library Aid 

The Governor released the executive budget yesterday and the news is not good for libraries. The core details are as follows:

• $81.6M in library aid
• $1.3M MTA tax reimbursement
• $14M library construction fund

The Governor broke with his own precedent and did not include the legislative add-back from the previous year’s enacted budget into the present year’s baseline aid (if included aid would have been $85.6M). In effect, he proposed a 4.7% cut from current funding levels.

In a year the state is allegedly so flush with revenues that the Governor is proposing both tax cuts and new spending programs, it is obviously frustrating that he would reverse his established practice and commitment to libraries.

There is a 21 day and 30 day amendments period – during this time, the Governor could decide to add the $4M back in, and that’s where immediate advocacy efforts are needed from you. 

You can help, click here to send a message in support of New York Libraries. Once at the site, click the Take Action button and an e-mail form will allow you to easily send message to our elected officials. 

Thank you for your support.

Cathy