Call your City Councilmember
We’re so glad you love your library! Here are instructions for calling your city councilmember to voice your support for NYC libraries.
First, identify your council member and find their contact information.
- Use the lookup tool here: https://council.nyc.gov/districts/
Once you have their name and phone number use the script below as a guide for your conversation.
Script
Hi my name is (insert name) and I’m a constituent calling from District (insert district number).
I’m calling to urge Council Member (insert name) to pledge 0.5% of the city budget to our public libraries in 2027’s budget. 2026’s budget only allocates .45% of the total city budget for libraries. This was an increase of 16% from 2025, and that’s great. But, we can do better next year!
[Next you can either use this pre-written paragraph below or share a personal story about why the library is important to you.]
This would allow libraries, which are relied on now more than ever, to be more fully staffed, and accommodate patron needs. Libraries provide more than just free books. Some of the essential services provided by libraries include:
- Free and open climate-controlled public spaces for all city residents. Help for non-English speaking immigrants understand and interact with the culture, government, and educational system Countless free fun and educational programs for residents of all agesResume and job application support
An increase to .5% of the city budget next year would go a long way in providing support for our libraries. That would allow these vital public institutions to maintain their current services while providing additional funding for library workers.
Can I count on Council Member (insert name) to commit to asking for .5% of the 2027 budget to libraries?
If you have to leave a message please include your name and address. Council Members need to know what their constituents care about!
We want to hear about how your call went! We increase the likelihood of success with every single call, message or meeting! Help us keep track of all your effort by completing this form with details about your call. Thank you for standing up for libraries!