Libraries Face $5 Million In Cuts

The New York Library Association has announced the Governor has released his proposed 2008-09 State Budget and it contains the following:

- $ 5 million cut in Library Aid - removes the $5 million in supplemental system aid added by the Legislature in 2007-08 State Budget

- Library Materials Aid - remains the same at $6.25 per pupil

- $14 million in public library construction aid remains the same

Other Areas of Interest:

- Overall School Aid is increased by $1.46 billion

- BOCES aid is reduced by $31 million

- Bundy Aid to private colleges reduced by $1.05 million

- Community College Aid - reduced by $50 per student

- SUNY/CUNY - tuition held stable

- SUNY/CUNY Operating Aid - increased by $90 million

- Universal Broadband Initiative - increased from $5 million to $15 million

NYLA has reported its on-going advocacy effort will be to work to restore the $5 million cut in Library Aid.

Library directors, staff, and constituents are reminded that Tuesday, March 11, 2008 is Library Lobby Day in Albany. They are asked to make every effort to attend and demonstrate to the Legislature the need to restore the $5 million.