Sarah Jessica Parker: What Would New York Be Without Libraries? by NYPL StaffMay 20, 2019

Guest post by Sarah Jessica Parker

Libraries mean a great deal to me and my family. I have been visiting my local library and borrowing books for as far back as I can recall. For the past couple of decades, Jefferson Market Library in Greenwich Village has been my local branch, and for my family and our community it is not only a regular neighborhood stop for books, programs, and more, it is a cornerstone, a beacon, and one of the most beloved buildings in our community. I don't know what we’d do without it. I recently learned that the City is proposing budget cuts that would significantly impact services—fewer hours, fewer librarians, fewer collections, fewer programs, fewer classes.

As Carrie Bradshaw might, I couldn’t help but wonder: Can New York City survive without strong public libraries? Can we as a community, as a city, accept cuts to one of the most important institutions or organizations that exists in our city? A building, shelter, and space that offers to all the opportunity to access knowledge, information, and fact. Today, more necessary than ever.

So. I couldn't help but wonder, could I as a New Yorker accept cuts to our wonderful, important, necessary, and beloved libraries? I'm sorry. I can't.

 

Sarah Jessica Parker sticky note

These cuts would be a big mistake that would leave countless New Yorkers without access to key services. But let's not get carried away. There's still time to help.

One thing you can do is join me in posting a sticky note about why you need and love your public library. Your note will let the Mayor and City Council know what makes your local branch essential.
 
We can't let the City neglect one of our most important and first loves. 
 

 

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Comments

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I need my library

Submitted by Patty Saidenberg (not verified) on May 20, 2019 - 8:35am

My library acts as the veins in my body; without it I can’t dream, create and understand. Mayor - what are you thinking? This institution is the foundation of thought in the greatest city in the world

Budget cuts to NY Public Library

Submitted by Hedy Siegel (not verified) on May 20, 2019 - 6:06pm

As a former New Yorker and a current children’s librarian, I implore the NY Mayor not to make detrimental cuts to the libraries. Having a strong library system is vital to the community of people using its resources. Libraries are the essence of the strong community. As a sidelight, my child met her husband at the NYPL some years ago and our family continues to value these wonderful sources of information and learning!

HELP! My Library Card is my

Submitted by Mary (not verified) on May 21, 2019 - 9:14am

HELP! My Library Card is my form of recreation and entertainment! @ All branches.

Love the Library!

Submitted by Peter (not verified) on May 21, 2019 - 3:35pm

I've been a big supporter of the library since a child. We need it more than ever!

Eastchester Library

Submitted by Donna (not verified) on June 17, 2019 - 2:25pm

This is my childhood library. I am so happy to see so much has changed and so much has remained the same. Supporting public libraries means supporting public good.

I have sent my kids to the

Submitted by David (not verified) on June 17, 2019 - 2:27pm

I have sent my kids to the public library for 15 years now. Westchester Square is like a second home to our family. Support the library support our children,

Education is the foundation of the future

Submitted by Tina (not verified) on June 30, 2019 - 1:08pm

Education is the foundation of the future as libraries encourage reading, writing and learning for children. This library is vital to the community and must continue to service and exist. I have been a patron for many years now.