For Immediate Release
DC Library Renaissance Project
Contact: Robin Diener
202/387-8030
202/431-9254 cell
Advocates Look to Crime Billto Keep Libraries Open This Summer
WASHINGTON, DC – June 15, 2009 –– Library advocates are asking the DC Council for an immediate infusion of $600,000 as part of emergency crime omnibus legislation, to allow DC Public library to restore full operating hours during the upcoming crime-heavy summer months. Their request follows the success of Friends of the Library, Library Renaissance Project, and others in having $3.2 million added to the budget to resume DC Public Library’s schedule for FY2010, starting October 1.
Currently, all DCPL branch libraries are closed two mornings a week because of a $2M shortfall needed for staffing. Despite a promise by Mayor Adrian Fenty at a press conference last summer to find the monies through the city’s debt reduction, funds were never transferred to DCPL, forcing the library to make cutbacks in March 2009.
Advocates are calling for hours to be restored during the summer, since libraries provide a readymade avenue to deter crime in more than 20 neighborhoods throughout the city. In addition to educational resources and computer access, libraries offer safe haven from extreme climate when tempers flare, as well as distraction from problems at home and from temptations of the street.
Led by Library, Parks and Rec Committee Chairman Harry Thomas (D-Ward 5), fellow members Yvette Alexander (D-Ward 7), Marion Barry (D-Ward 8), and Kwame Brown (D-at Large), made key contributions to finding funds for DCPL’s FY2010 budget allotment.
###
The Library Renaissance Project is a non profit organization founded by Ralph Nader in 2002 to protect and promote the public interest in the District’s library system. It is not affiliated with and does not represent the trustees or administration of the DC Public Library. This message is provided for informational purposes to the media and other parties who have requested updates about developments affecting the public interest in the DC Library. If you do not wish to receive messages from us, please let us know by contacting: rdiener@savedclibraries.org
LIBRARY
DYNAMOS