Advocacy Resources
Advocacy:
Advocacy is defined as “public support for or recommendation of a particular cause or policy.” For our libraries, advocacy is an essential statement of support and appreciation that ensures free and equal access to information, knowledge, and independent learning for all.
Current Library Advocacy Issues
Governor Cuomo has cut roughly $595,000 to Southern Tier public libraries in his 2020 executive budget. $73,991 of this reduction is operating aid, and $521,501 are capital funds. This is the fourth consecutive year the governor has reduced funding for libraries, and placed the responsibility on the senate and assembly to overturn his decision. The ultimate result has been flat funding from 2016- 2019. What happens in 2020 is up to us. Use the link below to contact your New York State Senate and Assembly representatives!
Our 2020 priorities:
- NYS Library Operating Aid: $200M
- NYS Library Construction Aid: $75M
- Equal Access to School Libraries and Librarians
[S2421 Kaplan / A2444 Solages] - Training for Library Trustees
[S7285 May / A9551 Ryan]
Take action here:
Show Your Support for Libraries
This page is intended to connect Southern Tier residents with state and federal representatives. It also highlights current library issues you can weigh-in on as a library supporter. Feel free to use these links to voice your opinions regarding matters that concern you most.
State Representative’s Websites
Offices of the 57th NYS Senate District (Represents STLS libraries in Allegany County)
Senator Thomas O’Mara (Represents STLS libraries in Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben & Yates counties)
Assemblyman Philip Palmesano (Represents STLS libraries in Addison, Avoca, Bath, Branchport, Canisteo, Corning, Dundee, Hammondsport, Hector, Howard, Middlesex, Montour Falls, Odessa, Penn Yan, Pulteney, Rushville, Savona and Watkins Glen) Also serves on the Assembly Standing Committee of Libraries & Education Technology.
Assemblywoman Marjorie Byrnes (Represents STLS libraries in Arkport, Atlanta, Cohocton, Hornell, Prattsburgh and Wayland)
Assemblyman Christopher Friend (Represents STLS libraries in Chemung County)
Assemblyman Joseph Giglio (Represents STLS libraries in Allegany County, Greenwood and Jasper)
Federal Representative’s Websites
Thank you for your participation and ongoing support of Southern Tier libraries!