2009 NYLA BUDGET PRIORITIES

Library Aid

Reject $18 million (18%) cut in Library Aid

1. This cut would bring Library Aid down to 1993 levels.
2. Library Aid was already cut twice in 2008 (total of 3%).
3. Library use has increased dramatically due to economic downturn.
4. Library Aid provides the majority of funding for library systems, which allow libraries to provide services in a cost-effective and efficient manner.

Public Library Construction

• Currently $1.3 billion in shovel ready projects public library construction projects.
• Public Library Construction projects should be included in state plan to utilize proposed federal public works economic recovery funds.

Amend Contracts for Excellence Initiative

• Amend Contracts for Excellence Initiative to allow extra funds for high need school districts to be spent on hiring certified school librarians and purchase library books.  Nineteen state studies plus recent NYS study conducted by Syracuse University document positive impact that school libraries have on improving student academic achievement.

Computer Software Aid for Online Use

• Computer Software Aid law needs to be updated to recognize that informational or educational programs are no longer exclusively available on CD’s or other physical formats but exist online. (Included in Executive Budget)

Expand Eligibility for Local Government Shared Services Grants

• Eligibility for these grants needs to be expanded to include all types of public libraries. The law was changed in 2008 to allow library districts to apply, but left out almost 50% of the remaining types of public libraries. (Included in Executive Budget)

Statewide Internet Library

• Provide start-up funds for Statewide Internet Library that would enable the State Library to negotiate statewide licensing of online databases and other electronic publications that would save libraries and local taxpayers $87 million.
  
  
  

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