Save Our Libraries

Save Our Libraries
2009 Advocacy Information Source

No More Cuts to Long Island Library Systems & Libraries
The Governor's proposed state budget for 2009-10 would be devastating for libraries, library systems, and library users throughout New York. The proposal calls for a 18% cut in funding for 2009 on top of the 3% cut that occurred in 2008. When adjusted for inflation, this would virtually wipe out all state aid increases of the last two decades and leave library funding at the 1993 level.

"Our message is simple. Times are tough, and that's when libraries are most needed.”

GET INVOLVED TODAY - ADVOCACY 2009

In The News:

Libraries Offer FREE Relief During Tough Times:

Our patrons need us NOW more than ever.
- They are struggling financially and rely on the library for essential & unique services: family programming; books, DVDs, audiobooks for learning and entertainment; internet access.
- Many are losing their jobs. They rely on library computers to create resumes, search for and apply for jobs online.
- People need support from their neighbors. Public libraries are the new "community centers" - one of the only public places to come together over common interests and interact.

Articles of IMPORTANCE:

Here's how YOU can help:

CONTACT YOUR ELECTED OFFICIAL - voice your opposition to further cuts in Library Aid
STAY CURRENT ON WHAT IS GOING ON - Register for Critical e-mail alerts
Use the graphics below on your website and on publications
Call, Write and Invite: your local legislators
Help motivate your patrons to GET INVOLVED TODAY:
- Your awareness leads to word-of-mouth marketing about our advocacy campaign.
- Create links on your web site to this site & NYLA Online Advocacy Center.
- Create articles in your newsletter to inform your patrons.
- Create petition forms within your library.
- Get the word out, talk to and email your patrons.

Here's HELP for Making the Case to Legislators:

Know the Issues, Make the Case:

Become familair with the 10 Pro-Library Arguments (ALA):
- Libraries....
  1. connect us to our past.
  2. inform our present
  3. inspire our future.
  4. educate, entertain, enrich.
  5. build communities.
  6. help students succeed.
  7. attract businesses.
  8. support literacy and lifelong learning.
  9. protect our right to know.
  10. are a great American bargain.
Visit the ALA site - Advocating in a Tough Economy Toolkit [ALA]
Make the case for libraries at every stage of youth development and education - Libraries Make the Difference in Youth Development and Education [ALA]
Gather antedotes from your patrons about the library and the system to convey to your legislators. Ask your patron questions:
- Describe your typical visit to the library. Why do you come here? What do you leave with?
- Why do you like the library?
- Give us an example of when you were surprised to learn about a library service.
- What do you think having a library in our community means to people?
- Give us an example of something you wish everyone knew about our library.

Get in contact with your NYS SENATOR & ASSEMBLY PERSON:

Invite them to your library for a tour.
Invite them to read to the children in your community.
Help them understand how important it is that your library and the Suffolk Cooperative Library System work together to provide excellence in service to your community.

Graphics for Your Library's Web Site: