New York State's libraries could face another round of funding cuts. Governor Andrew Cuomo’s proposed budget includes cuts to operating and construction aid for libraries, leaving advocates and patrons concerned about how many people – including those who live in poverty – will access the materials, technology, and services they need. A 2017 Siena Research Poll found that two million New Yorkers rely on public libraries to access the internet, including 25 percent of low-income households.
We explore how the potential cuts could impact library users, including those in local rural communities where a significant number of families do not have access to the internet at home. In studio:
- Lauren Moore, executive director of the Pioneer Library System
- Sally Snow, assistant director of the Monroe County Library System, and communications director for the Rochester Public Library
- Kristy Bauman, adult services librarian for the Wood Library
