New York Public Libraries
Threatened by $40 Million Cut
Threatened by $40 Million Cut
The most severe budget cut ever faced by The New York Public Library was announced on May 6 as part of the Mayor's Executive Budget. "The proposed cut of $36,800,000 is even worse than the cuts to the Library in the 1970s, when New York was on the brink of bankruptcy," Library President Paul LeClerc said.
"If funding is not restored we will be forced to drastically reduce critical library services for New Yorkers. Ten libraries would have to close; those that remain open would have their hours reduced to an average of just 4 days per week. The cut would also result in the loss of 736 staff positions--36% of our workforce. Today record numbers of New Yorkers are relying on their libraries for free job information, Internet access, computer classes, business information, after-school programs, and much more. This budget would force us to reduce or eliminate services at the time they are needed most. That's why we look forward to working with the City Council and the Mayor to restore funding for libraries."
The cuts would leave New Yorkers with:
- 5.8 million fewer visits to libraries (including 1.8 million fewer by children and young people)
- 5.7 million fewer items circulated
- 2 million fewer computer sessions
- In the Central Bronx, where 82% of families earn less than $50,000 per year, there would be 880,000 fewer visits and 632,000 fewer items circulated.
- In Lower Manhattan where 72% of families earn less than $50,000 per year, there would be 1.1 million fewer visits and 1.3 million fewer items circulated.
- In Staten Island there would be 543,000 fewer visits, and 659,000 fewer items circulated.
The New York Public Library currently receives 18 million visits annually to its 90 libraries and another 26.5 million visits each year to its website, www.nypl.org.
The New York Public Library needs your help to fight the worst funding cut in its 100-year history. Visit the NYPL's Take Action website to learn how you can help.
