WHEREAS:

Library employees across the country are facing layoffs, furloughs and reductions in hours. In 2009, more than half the nation’s libraries reported funding cuts, 15 percent reported cuts to their hours of operation and thirteen states reported library closures; and

WHEREAS:
Libraries are playing a vital role in the nation’s economic recovery. More businesses require online job applications, and internet access and job-seeking resources are among the most critical and popular resources available in U.S. public libraries; and

WHEREAS:
Libraries are facilitators of literacy and education, and champions of equal opportunity for all.  They provide resources to those who otherwise cannot afford it.   Forty-four percent of people in households living below the federal poverty line ($22,000 a year for a family of four) used public library computers and Internet access; and

WHEREAS:
Libraries help users participate in democracy. More than 26 million people used public library computers to get government or legal information or to access government services.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
That AFSCME International, councils and locals advocate for full funding of library services at the federal, state and local level; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:
That AFSCME International, councils and locals oppose all privatization attempts in libraries; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:
That AFSCME International, councils and locals coordinate and network with national and local leaders, professional associations, and library advocates to protect library resources and promote the value of libraries to the community; and
 
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:
That AFSCME International, councils and locals advocate on behalf of library employees and library patrons by opposing layoffs, furloughs and reduced hours and erosion of benefits and pensions.
 
 
SUBMITTED BY: 
Elissa Cadillic, President and Delegate
AFSCME Local 1526, Council 93
Massachusetts