WHEREAS, public libraries make up one of the most important institutions in New York City and are considered essential in urban areas as they provide a vast range of services including afterschool programs and cultural activities in addition to books, computers and other sources of media; and

WHEREAS, during the pandemic, the entire New York City public library system, empathized with millions of New Yorkers and ended all late fees, which removed a major barrier for library use; and

WHEREAS, 455 New York City public schools participate in the MyLibraryNYC Program a collaborative program bringing together public librarians, UFT school librarians and classroom teachers; and

WHEREAS, Mayor Eric Adams has proposed library cuts of $13.6 million, that if passed would negatively impact most New Yorkers; and

WHEREAS the mayor’s budget proposal aims to go beyond balancing the budget to create billions of dollars in surplus by slashing desperately needed public services that many New Yorkers rely upon; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, that the UFT convey to City Council and other city agencies the urgent need to support and maintain libraries, as they are a necessity for the children and communities we serve; and be it further

RESOLVED, that the UFT works with NYSUT to influence state legislation requiring adequate funding and appropriate staffing of both public and school libraries across the state; and be it further

RESOLVED, that the UFT arrange an action to support our community libraries and librarians.