What’s at Stake for Library Superheroes

“To speak your mind when your voice shakes is difficult. But, if you have no public library to feed your mind, you may have no voice at all.”

“Speak your mind even if your voice shakes.” This quote from American ActivistMaggie Kuhn rests above the stove in my family’s kitchen. My wife put it there several years ago as a reminder to my daughters to always stick up for themselves, and their friends and sisters. On occasion, I also refer to it for inspiration when required to speak publically or address my fellow colleagues.

Speaking up is difficult. It requires an individual to put themselves out there, and be vulnerable to the thoughts and opinions of others. At some point, we as humans become continually aware of what others think. It starts in grade school and escalates as we get older. Yet, through experience and wisdom we realize our opinions define us, so in order to bring about change… we must avoid what is comfortable. And, do what is right.

There is plenty of scrambling going on in Albany right now. Governor Cuomo rolled out his agenda for the year, so every stakeholder is communicating with State representatives their need for available resources. As you know, libraries are part of the equation.

Advocacy Day for Southern Tier Libraries is only two weeks away. On Wednesday, February 25, representatives from our five-county region will meet with Senators Young and O’Mara, and Assembly Members Giglio, Nojay, Palmesano and Friend. We will meet with them in Albany to discuss the value of public library services in the Southern Tier.

Our reasons for attending are numerous:

(1) Library Funding is at 1997 Levels: If New York State allocated the $102.6 million dollars to libraries as written in law, STLS Cost Share could be reduced by 50%. $102.6 million sounds like a lot of money, but actually it only represents 1/10 of 1% of New York State’s total budget.

(2) Construction Aid is in High Demand: More and more STLS member libraries are requesting Construction Aid for much needed facility improvements. STLS is only allocated $365,000 per year to support member library projects. This year, the Board of Regents is proposing a program increase. If approved, STLS could receive an additional $100,000 for member libraries.

(3) New York State Aid to Member Libraries is Marginal: Most STLS libraries receive roughly $2,400 in Local Library Services Aid. This aid is distributed to member for general operating expenses. It seems unfair for New York State to ask local libraries to freeze tax rates, but yet provide flat funding to operate. How do rural libraries offer 21st century library services with no funding increases in a time of economic growth?

(4) Central Library and Book Aid is Important to All Member Libraries: Chemung County Library District provides additional access to eBooks, databases, non-fiction materials and training to STLS member libraries through State Aid. All member libraries are at a loss when Central Library funding is flat. CCLD residents are especially at a loss because there is no growth in the local collection.

(5)Funding for Faster Internet and Public Computing Classes at Member Libraries: Yes, the Governor has proposed a Digital Literacy Initiative that could fund public computer classes at member libraries. The State Library – Division of Library Development is trying to a make this possible. Much of the details are vague at the moment. However, State representatives need to follow through on the Governor’s request.

(6) Improved STLS Services: 75% of STLS’ revenue derives from State Aid. Stagnant funding forces STLS to think creatively about how monies can be spent to maximize member libraries’ return on investment. Library systems should set the precedence for cutting edge, innovative library practices. This is a challenge as STLS staff is the leanest it has been since our incorporation in 1958.

I would like to thank Margo Gustina, Pauline Emery, Sarah Collins, Susan McGill, Alex Andrasik, Denise King, Barb Radigan and Don Radigan for volunteering to be this year’s STLS Superheroes. Our goal is to have 2 representatives from each STLS county. We still need volunteers from Allegany, Chemung and Schuyler counties. Attached you will find a registration form for this year’s Advocacy Day. It can be sent to Member Services Consultant Margo Gustina via STLS Delivery or email (gustinam@stls.org).

To speak your mind when your voice shakes is difficult. But, if you have no public library to feed your mind, you may have no voice at all.

I look forward to sharing our journey’s story upon our return. STLS and our member libraries have much at stake this year, so your continued support and many efforts are appreciated.

Have a great February weekend and Presidents Day, STLS!