LI libraries' funding, Cory Booker and Democrats
Democratic Sen, Cory Booker, of New Jersey, speaks on the Senate floor Tuesday. Credit: AP
LI libraries’ funding put in jeopardy
I love libraries. While this sentiment might be unsurprising given the 20 years I’ve spent as a Long Island librarian, I’d argue the prevailing belief in our communities is that libraries are wonderful and valuable places.
My concern, however, is that people are not aware of how recent events in our nation’s capital will devastate local libraries [“Museums’ funding concerns,” Our Towns, March 3].
On March 14, President Donald Trump signed an executive order moving to dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the only federal agency dedicated to funding libraries. This action puts essential services at risk and poses a severe threat to libraries nationwide, including on Long Island.
New York State receives $8.1 million annually from the IMLS-administered Grants to States program, the largest source of federal funding for U.S. library services. It is crucial for the continued functionality of our state’s library infrastructure.
Libraries are an important part of New York’s education ecosystem. Let’s ensure future generations have access to these vital centers of lifelong learning.
— Christine Faraday, Rockville Centre
Booker opens door for Schumer to act
Sen. Cory Booker gave Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer a free pass with his amazing marathon speech [“Booker’s speech makes history,” Nation, April 2]. He did what Schumer and other Democrats have not done.
Booker got the attention of progressive Democrats. We unified behind him. Rooted for him. Listened to his inspiring message and got uplifted by his enthusiasm. We have been in an abyss. We have felt leaderless and without direction.
Booker has opened the door for Schumer, who can do one of two things. He can get some meaningful work done with solutions. Or as he did with the Signal chat scandal, he can let the door of opportunity slam in his face again, leaving us aghast and hopeless. I don’t think Schumer will get many more opportunities to fix this horrifying mess.
— Beth Shapiro, Oakdale
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