STATE: Executive Budget and One House Budget Proposals are out. They all advocate for increased funding. Legislators have until April 1, 2025 to finalize the state budget. NYLA is encouraging library supporters to continue contacting the Governor and the Senate to make sure libraries are adequately funded in the final FY 2026 Budget.
Executive:
Operating Aid - $104.6M
Library Construction Aid - $34M
NOVELny - $3M
(School) Library Materials Aid - no change
Senate One House Bill:
Operating Aid - $109.6M
Construction Aid - $54M
NOVELny - $3.25M
(School) Library Materials Aid - $11.33/pupil
Assembly One House Bill:
Operating Aid - $107.1M
Construction Aid - $68M
NOVELny - $3M
(School) Library Materials Aid - $11.50/pupil
NATIONAL: In the meantime NYLA is also encouraging library supporters to contact their federal elected officials and demand they defend IMLS. Elimination of IMLS was advanced in an Executive Order signed by the President on March 14. The New York State Library receives $8.1M from IMLS and 55 of their 84 staff is funded by federal dollars. IMLS also awarded $19M in grants to NYS museums and libraries for FY 2024.
All relevant links can be found here:
https://www.nyla.org/2025-legislative-initiativesSee also ALA's call to action:
https://app.oneclickpolitics.com/campaign-page?cid=9CyapZUB9sorxFLO4J0c&lang=en
