Today, Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh (R,C,I-Ballston) spoke in support of library funding in New York state at both the New York Library Association Rally and the Assembly Minority’s press conference that outlined this year’s budget priorities.

The press conference, held by the Assembly Minority Conference, outlined this year’s budget priorities and took place in the back of the Assembly Chamber in the New York State Capitol. The conference called on the governor to include numerous proposals in the 2019-20 budget, including increasing library funding, making the two percent property tax cap permanent, providing a living wage for direct care workers, and keeping the processes funding for Aid of Incentives to Municipalities (AIM) funding.

Walsh also participated in the New York Library Association (NYLA) Rally held in the Legislative Office Building during their Library Advocacy Day. Every year, NYLA advocates come to Albany to voice their support for funding and policies that benefit libraries. Their ongoing efforts have resulted in over $11 million in additional aid for libraries since 2011.  Walsh spoke at the rally in support of the organization and its mission.

“Our libraries provide a significant educational service in our communities that benefits all ages. Although we have increasingly become more reliant on technology, our libraries have seen increased usage of their services and serve as an invaluable resource to our communities, as they provide a safe haven for individuals to learn, interact, and explore,” said Walsh, Assembly Minority Ranker on the Education Committee. “I am proud to stand here with the NYLA and work together towards our shared goal of increasing state funding for our libraries. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join us in these deserving efforts.”