Statement from BPL President Linda E. Johnson, NYPL President Anthony W. Marx, and Queens Public Library President Dennis M. Walcott Regarding the Fiscal Year 2025 Executive Budget Announcement

April 24, 2024: “We are deeply disappointed that the FY25 executive budget failed to reverse devastating cuts proposed for public libraries in January. New Yorkers rely on the vital services we provide, and data shows library usage is continuing to climb in key metrics – including visits and program participation. The $58.3M in cuts that Libraries are facing, if enacted, threaten to upend much of the progress we’ve made over the past few years, and will severely impact vulnerable communities who need our services the most. We’ve already lost seven-day service city-wide, and are looking at most branches being open for only five days a week should these cuts go through. 

Libraries are among the most trusted institutions, and make New York City stronger. We will continue working with the Administration and the Council to fully restore funding so we can continue providing the level of service our patrons want and need.” 

Linda E. Johnson, President of Brooklyn Public Library
Anthony W. Marx, President of The New York Public Library
Dennis M. Walcott, President of Queens Public Library