21% cut to library & system funding proposed

[Rebekkah Smith Aldrich (MHLS)]

Governor Paterson released his proposed cuts today and libraries were front and center: Governor Paterson has proposed a $20 million cut to library aid - that's a 21% cut to library and system funding that has been static for a decade.

Did that wake you up?

Take action:

• Take 5 minutes out of your day this week to send a letter through NYLA's automated faxing program - the letter is already written for you - it does not get any easier: http://www.nyla.org/index.php?page_id=925
  
• Take 5 more minutes to call your legislator [http://midhudson.org/funding/advocacy/legislators_adv.htm] Here are some talking points:

• Libraries have already contributed their fair share toward reducing the state's budget deficit. Library Aid has already been reduced twice this year from $102 million to $99 million.

• Between 1998-2006, libraries and library systems received no increases, while other educational institutions received generous increases.

• Library use is up dramatically in every community across the state. [use stats from your own library here - circulation, program attendance, door count, computer usage]

• Library systems are the backbone of our libraries and information infrastructure. They are an example of how the library community has long been a champion and role model for regional cooperation, resource sharing and providing services in a cost-effective and efficient manner, that saves libraries of all types and their patrons money.

• There is still room on the bus to Albany for the Rally next Tuesday, November 18th. Register online at http://calendar.midhudson.org/eventsignup.asp?ID=1800

Your voice matters - make sure it is heard. Thanks in advance for your time!

-Rebekkah

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Rebekkah Smith Aldrich, Coordinator of Member Information
Mid-Hudson Library System
103 Market Street
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
845.471.6060 x239
FX: 845.454.5940
http://midhudson.org