Libraries are the cornerstone of communities throughout New York. Whether providing services for children and teens, supporting entrepreneurs, or cultivating arts and culture, libraries are the soundest investment New York can make in its future.

1. Invest in New York
libraries today.
See returns in
New Yorkers tomorrow.
Libraries are the cornerstone of communities
throughout New York. Whether providing services
for children and teens, supporting entrepreneurs,
or cultivating arts and culture, libraries are the
soundest investment New York can make in its future.
1,100 public libraries across
New York State
53% of New York State residents
are library card holders
28 million reference questions
are asked in New York State each year
97% of New York’s libraries offer
access to ebooks
1.74 million of New York’s children
participated in Summer Reading at their
local library in 2013
94% of parents in the U.S. say libraries
are important for their children
80+ programs for immigrants are hosted
Libraries are an economic
engine for New York State. Over
250 small businesses have been
launched in New York City alone,
thanks to library services.
Libraries provide the
educational advantage for our
youngest New Yorkers. Summer
Reading programs prevent the
“summer slump.” And studies
show that students at schools
that staff media specialists have
higher test scores.
Libraries are the great
equalizer, often serving as
the ONLY source of access
to the web for low income
communities.
Libraries are a great
investment. New York’s public
library patrons realize over $7 in
services for every $1 in state aid.
each year at Queens Public Library
Sources:
American Library Association
Center for an Urban Future
Pew Internet and Libraries
ProtectNYLibraries.org
New York Library Association
New York State Division of Library Development
School Library Journal
metro.org