PRESS RELEASES
ERIE COUNTY LEGISLATURE TO CONSIDER AN ADDITIONAL $1.6 MILLION FOR THE BUFFALO AND ERIE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY IN THE PROPOSED 2008 COUNTY BUDGET
Buffalo, NY -- On Friday, November 30th, the Erie County Legislature released proposed amendments to the 2008 County budget that provide $1.6 million in additional support to the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library (B&ECPL). County Executive Joel A. Giambra recommended flat funding for the Library, proposing a 2008 Library Property Tax levy that remains unchanged at $22,171,833. To be included in the 2008 Budget, this amendment must be approved by the County Legislature, which is scheduled to consider budget amendments on Tuesday, December 4, 2007.
"We are grateful for this validation of our purpose and our plans for the future," said B&ECPL Director Michael C. Mahaney. "This additional funding is a ringing endorsement that the Library has genuine value in our community and manages the financial resources entrusted to it responsibly and with vision, never losing sight of the end users -- the real people who rely on us and whose taxes support our efforts."
The additional funds will benefit many libraries with increased hours of service. The City of Buffalo Branch libraries will all be open a minimum of 40 hours per week. The funding will also allow libraries to provide additional programming, including computer training and youth programs, as well as to improve system-wide services. Consideration of alternative service models to better serve the public will also be explored.
"Thank you to the many individuals who voiced support for Erie County's public libraries in recent weeks," added Mahaney. "We look forward to continuing to serve the fundamental needs of our community."
For a breakdown of funding restoration initiatives, visit the Library's website at http://www.buffalolib.org/aboutthelibrary/Library_2008_Restore_Prop_Bgt_Amend_11_30_2007.pdf
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