New Budget Year, Same Irresponsible Cuts

Mayor Adam's proposed $58.3 million cuts to libraries for FY25 pose a significant threat to community well-being. Libraries are essential hubs providing vital resources, education, and access to information, especially for marginalized populations. November's 5 percent cut resulted in the loss of Sunday service and hampered accessibility. Further reductions will deepen inequalities, deprive low-income families of crucial resources, and undermine support systems for the most vulnerable. Prioritizing fiscal austerity over community welfare risks long-term prosperity and social cohesion, reflecting a disregard for citizens' needs.

Libraries stand as pillars of knowledge and support within our communities, offering a sanctuary for learning, exploration, and growth. Mayor Adam's proposed cuts not only jeopardize access to books and information, but also threaten to diminish the sense of community and connection that libraries foster. As advocates for literacy, education, and inclusivity, we must rally together to protect these valuable institutions and ensure that everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, has the opportunity to benefit from the wealth of resources and opportunities that libraries provide. Let us stand united in our commitment to safeguarding the well-being and vitality of our communities and champion libraries as cornerstones of progress and equality.

Tell City Council to Protect

Our Libraries

If Mayor Adams’ budget cuts go through as planned, the majority of NYC libraries will lose weekend service. Additionally, 13 libraries currently closed for construction may shutter indefinitely.

All this at a time when libraries are helping our communities recover—from the loss of critical services and social isolation exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic.

We cannot allow this to happen, which is why we need your voice in this fight. Add your name to our letter and tell your councilmember why libraries are a lifeline for our city.

NYC Libraries Create Community

Funding Libraries = Funding our Communities

Upcoming Events

Save NYC Libraries Canvassing Day

Bedford Library

Broadway Library

Melrose Library

Join fellow library staff and library advocates for a citywide day of action—to defend universal six-day service across the five boroughs and keep libraries fully (and safely) staffed.

We’ll be canvassing neighbors and circulating a petition, while sharing experiences about frustrating budget constraints and short staffing.

This event was organized by Urban Librarians Unite in collaboration with the NYC Library Union Locals.

RSVP

Families' Read-In for a People's Budget

Brooklyn Public Library

10 Grand Army Plaza

Join us for a family-friendly storytime outside of the Brooklyn Public Central Library. Before budget cuts in 2023 forced Sunday closures, libraries in every borough hosted Sunday storytime every weekend. Like community groups across the city, we'll be making up for the social services cut by Mayor Adams, hosting storytime and craft activities, and writing letters to Adams to call on him to fully restore the library budget.

RSVP

What You Can Do

Pick your library system and sign the pledge to support libraries in NYC today! Strong public libraries are key to a strong and resiliant community. Cutting funding is short sighted and bad for the well being of our city.

These budget cuts are ridiculous and unnecessary, make your voice heard today.

Save NYC Libraries is a campaign of Urban Librarians Unite, a passionate group of urban library professionals and advocates working to support libraries and library workers in urban environments.

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