This week, Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C,I-Corning) addressed officials representing local libraries and library systems across the state at a rally in the Capitol. Palmesano is fighting to restore the governor’s proposed budget cuts to library aid. He also wants to increase funding so that total library aid is in compliance with state statute, allowing these dedicated officials to continue offering quality programming and reliable services.

“Our local libraries are so important. They are community hubs. We’ve heard it so many times today from so many speakers because its true- libraries are education. If we’re going to increase our investment in public education, we should make a corresponding investment in our local libraries,” said Palmesano.

Palmesano noted that library usage is up across the state. For many people in rural areas, it’s where they can go to get online and get connected to career opportunities.

“It’s an investment in life-long learning. It’s an investment in literacy. It’s an investment in workforce development.”

Palmesano also met with officials from the Finger Lakes Library System and the Southern Tier Library System.

Since he was first elected in 2010, Palmesano has been a member of the New York State Assembly Committee on Libraries and Education Technology.