Shore up the New York State Library's foundation

Much like opening a book, stepping into a library unlocks a world of possibilities for our neighbors at every stage of their lives. Long Islanders visited their public libraries more than 13 million times in 2025 because they offer reliable internet for those without access at home, story times for kids to develop important literacy skills, books in multiple formats, Braille materials for individuals with disabilities, a friendly place to get out of the house and socialize, programs for immigrants to study English as a second language, and so much more.

These initiatives aren’t just nice to have. They are mandatory in order to uplift each and every New Yorker, regardless of income, background or circumstance.

We take for granted that much of this work is made possible by the New York State Library, which supports the 762 public libraries across the state. Local libraries rely on the State Library for the infrastructure needed to expand services to meet the community’s needs, update and modernize facilities, and train staff on topics such as digital equity and serving patrons with disabilities. As a result of this support, 99% of the state’s public libraries are wheelchair accessible, half a million New Yorkers received support through the English for Speakers of Other Languages library programs, and millions of dollars were distributed through approved construction grants. In December, a record $5.56 million in state capital funding was announced for Long Island libraries, made possible by grant support provided by the State Library.

But this foundation is rapidly cracking due in part to decades of inadequate funding from the Cultural Education Fund, the sole operating source for the State Library, Museum, and Archives. This antiquated funding model has not changed since 2002, leaving the state Office of Cultural Education (OCE) to operate with an almost 20% smaller budget than it did 20 years ago. This, paired with the recent threats to the federal funding that supports 55 of the State Library’s 84 positions, means it is a crucial time for meaningful action.

We must allow libraries to continue to grow, not shrink. That is why the Nassau and Suffolk library systems are grateful to Gov. Kathy Hochul for including $12 million for a new, recurring General Fund appropriation for OCE in her proposed budget. This would allow the State Library to continue its important work, strengthening libraries across New York.

We cannot allow the library’s world of possibilities to become out of reach — or even worse, gone. It is time to strengthen the State Library for all New Yorkers. We encourage the State Senate and Assembly to support the State Library while also stepping up and restoring the $10 million in construction aid for libraries that was left out of the governor’s budget. This funding is critical for libraries to be able to maintain the infrastructure that allows patrons to enjoy a clean, safe and comfortable environment year-round.

As the federal government has cut back on the resources made available to taxpayers, libraries have picked up the slack, establishing programs to make sure our children, neighbors and friends do not fall behind. When you don’t properly fund libraries, you are not just closing one door. You are causing a dangerous ripple effect that will be felt in communities across the state.

This guest essay reflects the views of Caroline Ashby, the director of the Nassau Library System, and Kevin Verbesey, the executive director of the Suffolk Cooperative Library System.