CROWN HEIGHTS, NY — Thousands of Brooklyn readers have mobilized against proposed budget cuts that would could cost the borough’s public library system an estimated $20 million.
Local electeds have received roughly 4,600 emails from readers fighting for Brooklyn Public Library funding, according to the library’s website.
“Brooklyn libraries are a beacon for millions of our neighbors across multiple generations,” the email reads. “I am writing to urge you to reverse the proposed cuts to libraries, and protect our essential Brooklyn Public Library staff, programs and services.”
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Mayor Eric Adams’ proposal would cut about $8 million to the Brooklyn Public Library system in the next four years and a little less than $4 million to the Brooklyn, Queens and New York public library systems, according to Brooklyn Magazine.
The Brooklyn Public Library, in the email template published on its site, says budget cuts could lead to shorter operating hours, fewer open days and less spending on books.
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“In short, these cuts would directly impact my community at a critical moment in our city’s recovery,” the letter reads.
The letter notes that libraries provide a number of essential community services, like after-school programming, socialization for seniors and citizenship classes for immigrants and refugees.
“Libraries remain one of the few places in our city where everyone is welcome to learn and grow together,” the letter reads. “They are the heart of our community.”
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