Beyond Books: Ritchie Talks Strengthening Services With Local Library Advocates

Senate Select Committee on Libraries Chair Senator Patty Ritchie sat down with members of the New York Library Association—including individuals representing libraries from throughout Jefferson, St. Lawrence and Oswego Counties—on Wednesday in Albany as part of Library Advocacy Day.

The groups were there to discuss support for libraries in the upcoming state budget, as well as to advocate for legislation that would help strengthen the services offered by libraries across the state.

“Libraries are hubs of so many communities across New York State—especially in the region I represent,” said Senator Ritchie.  “I am proud to stand with library advocates and speak up in support of increased funding and changes that will help to improve the vitally important services they provide when it comes to learning, job-hunting, culture and so much more.”

A member of the Senate Select Committee on Libraries since 2012, Senator Ritchie was named Chair of the committee in January. 

There are more than 7,000 libraries throughout New York State, including more than 50 public libraries in Oswego, Jefferson and St. Lawrence Counties—one of the largest concentrations of public libraries in any Senate district in the state. Last year, Senator Ritchie advocated for passage of a new state budget that included a $9 million boost in funding for libraries.  In addition, she recently announced $137,000 in special funding benefiting 32 libraries in the counties she represents and two library networks serving local communities.