Assemblymen Phil Palmesano (R,C,I-Corning), Joseph M. Giglio (R,C,I-Gowanda) Christopher S. Friend (R,C,I-Big Flats) and Joseph Errigo (R,C,I,-Conesus) recently met with representatives from the Southern Tier Library System on Library Advocacy Day in Albany.

The legislators are fighting against funding cuts proposed by the governor in his executive budget. They believe local libraries should receive more support from the state.

“Libraries are the central hub for so many of our rural communities. For some, libraries are their only access to the internet and new technology. Libraries are essential and are the cornerstone of lifelong learning. Libraries are education, and as such, library funding should increase at the same percentage as education funding increases. We will work diligently during this year’s budget negotiations to not just restore the governor’s funding cuts, but we will also be working toward increasing funding above last year’s level,” said the four lawmakers in a joint statement.