June 28, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Lower Manhattan — After months of dogged perseverance, Council Member Eric Dinowitz, a well-known champion for the restoration of city funding for public libraries, was able to confirm that the budget would be fully restored. In a handshake deal that occurred yesterday between Mayor Eric Adams and the City Council, the new agreement would walk back the $58 million in cuts to the libraries, as had initially been proposed by the mayor. Even more surprising, the City Council was able to secure from the mayor a promise to invest an annual addition of $43 million for libraries going forward. 

This announcement allows many across the city to breathe a sigh of relief. Students, young children, parents, and families alike had submitted countless write-ins to their respective elected officials to show their objection to the proposed cuts. The mayor’s decision to overturn his original cuts will fund the continued daily service of over 200 libraries in New York City. 

“This is a win for the community,” declared Council Member Eric Dinowitz (Council District 11). “This was only feasible because New Yorkers all across our city raised their voices in support of a public service that fundamentally shapes our lives. Libraries are a resource for many and provide all of us with a safe space for learning and recreation. They are not only educational, they also serve as community centers through which constituents can receive free resources and support from the city.”

“I commend my fellow Council Members for their undaunting advocacy, on behalf of their constituents, to ensure that a service that is needed by millions is not only given its due support but better invested in.”

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