In the 2011-12 State budget, the Executive proposed an $8.4 million reduction in Aid to Public Libraries. Despite the challenging fiscal times, the Legislature was able to restore $3 million in library funding. The final approved budget for 2011-12 provided $79 million in state aid for libraries and library systems, including a continuation of $8 million in formula supplemental grants for library systems. In addition, language was included in the budget to ensure that the funding for libraries and library systems are impacted proportionately, assuring that all programs will continue to receive funding. Finally, the budget provided $14 million in capital funding to continue the Public Library Construction Grant Program for the sixth consecutive year.

This hearing will seek testimony on the impact the 2011-12 State budget has had on public libraries across New York State. In addition, the Committee is seeking testimony to ascertain the future needs of our public libraries and library systems.

Persons wishing to present pertinent testimony to the Committee at the above hearing should complete and return the enclosed reply form as soon as possible. It is important that the reply form be fully completed and returned so that persons may be notified in the event of emergency postponement or cancellation.

Oral testimony will be limited to 10 minutes' duration. In preparing the order of witnesses, the Committee will attempt to accommodate individual requests to speak at particular times in view of special circumstances. These requests should be made on the attached reply form or communicated to Committee staff as early as possible.

Ten copies of any prepared testimony should be submitted at the hearing registration desk. The Committee would appreciate advance receipt of prepared statements.

In order to further publicize these hearings, please inform interested parties and organizations of the Committee's interest in hearing testimony from all sources.

In order to meet the needs of those who may have a disability, the Assembly, in accordance with its policy of non-discrimination on the basis of disability, as well as the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), has made its facilities and services available to all individuals with disabilities. For individuals with disabilities, accommodations will be provided, upon reasonable request, to afford such individuals access and admission to Assembly facilities and activities.

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Persons wishing to present testimony at the public hearing on Funding Public Libraries in New York State are requested to complete this reply form as soon as possible and return it to:

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