Ritchie Launches "Beyond Books" Library Tour, Visits Western NY Libraries

Senate Select Committee on Libraries Chair Patty Ritchie recently kicked off a tour of New York State libraries with stops at the Springport Free Library in Union Springs and the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library – Central Library in downtown Buffalo. 

The purpose of Senator Ritchie’s "Beyond Books Tour” is to visit libraries—of all sizes—throughout New York State to meet with staff and discuss how the state can better work with them to strengthen the important services and resources they provide to library patrons. Senator Ritchie was joined by Senator Pam Helming at the Springport Free Library and Senator Chris Jacobs at the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library – Central Library.

“Whether they are small and rural or large and urban, every library across our state offers different—and important—resources in the communities where they exist,” said Senator Patty Ritchie. “Through this tour, I’m talking firsthand with staff and patrons to see how the state can better meet the needs of our libraries and gather ideas on how we can work together to improve them for everyone.”

In addition to Western New York Libraries, Senator Ritchie has plans in the near future to tour libraries downstate, including those in Manhattan and Queens. 

Senator Ritchie is also currently conducting a ‘2017 Public Library Survey’ on her website www.ritchie.nysenate.gov. Feedback provided by librarians will help identify ways the state can boost the more than 750 public libraries in New York State.

(Senator Ritchie is pictured in the attached photo with Senator Chris Jacobs and Buffalo & Erie County Public Library - Central Library Director Mary Jean Jakubowski)