GOV'S 2012-13 PROPOSED BUDGET KEEPS LIBRARY FUNDING FLAT; LOBBY DAY MARCH 6

Albany, N.Y-- Over the last three years, Library Aid has been cut by 23 percent, going from $102 million in 2008 to $79 million in 2011, which is below 1994 levels of funding. No other educational institutions are being asked to operate and provide services at 1994 levels, not schools or colleges, and neither should libraries. What's up with that?

The Voice Reporter is asking you to please contact your state legislators by going to The New York Library Association homepage and click on the Contact Your Elected Officials button on the lower left of the screen to send a fax or email to your state representatives.

The Governor has released his proposed 2012-13 Executive Budget and has kept Library Aid funding flat at last year's final level of $79 million (including the $3 million restored by the Legislature) and has also included $14 million in Public Library Construction funds.

CSEA and AFSCME both represent tens of thousands of library workers throughout New York State. AFSCME is the international parent union of CSEA, New York's largest public employee union.

In addition, School Aid (as promised by the Governor earlier) has been allocated a 4% increase or $805 million in additional funding to $20.3 billion (30% of state general fund).  The caveat is that the increased aid is tied to school districts adopting the new teacher evaluation process.  

CUNY and SUNY also receive same amount of general fund support as last year with the authority to spend the additional tuition increases ($113.2 million for SUNY and $66.6 million for CUNY). 

Community colleges were also held at last year's levels of $2,122 per student reimbursement. Adult Literacy Education (ALE) funding was also flat with last year at $4.2 million. 

It is not all bad news, considering our recent history with budget funding. This year we can begin our advocacy efforts with the Legislature on obtaining an increase in Library Aid (similar to schools) and not having to fight to get funds restored from last year. 


A quick reminder to all AFSCME/CSEA library workers: NYLA’s SnapshotNY is scheduled for week of February 12-25th so please visit ProtectNYLibraries.org to upload your photos, testimonials and factual data that will help our advocacy efforts. 

And Tuesday, March 6th is AFSCME/CSEA and NYLA Advocacy Day.  NYLA and library supporters will convene in Meeting Room Six in the Empire State Plaza. AFSCME/CSEA folks will register outside Meeting Room Six and enter the Convention Center for a rally, lunch and legislative prep sessions. Legislative visits will take place directly after lunch.

CSEA WNY Region 6 members can call 1.716.691.6555 to reserve your seat on the bus. Libraries Matter: See the Light.