Newark Public Library

Newark Public Library Funding Update

The city of Newark is cutting funding to the Library by $2.45 million (nearly 20%) in 2010 and by $4.9 million in 2011. These cuts represent nearly a 45% reduction since 2008. (Source: Press Release)

These cuts in funding will:

* Reduce the Library’s 2010 budget by more than $2.45 million

* Force the shutdown of the First Avenue Branch on August 27th

* Force the shutdown of the Madison Branch Library on August 27th

* Close all library locations on Mondays and Tuesdays starting August 16th

* Close all branches on Saturdays after June 26th

* Slash the book budget

* Cancel programs for children and adults

* Cause the layoff of 31 employees

The Newark Public Library is essential.

Budget Cuts: Opportunity Just 4 Days a Week

Main Branch Hours After Budget Cuts

Newark Public Library: By the Numbers

2009 Statistics

Patron Visits: 689,520

Total Circulation: 372,264

Reference Questions Answered: 244,570

Computer Use Sessions: 237,832

Library Card Registrations: 119,763

Total Items Cataloged: 25,268

Computer Training Classes attendance: 1,818

Programs (Library and Community Organization sponsored) programs/attendance: 1,617/48,502

American Sign Language Classes attendance: 412

English for Speakers of Other Languages Classes attendance: 300

(Source: Newark Public Library 2009 Annual Report)

“This library is very important to me. My computer is broken down so I’m using the library’s computer to search for a job and read my e-mails. I like to spend time and read magazines and books. Keep up with the good work! Thanks!”

Simone (Source: Newark Public Library 2009 Annual Report)

Newark Public Library -- Call to Action

Join the Friends of the Newark Public Library

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In the Press


Newark community is up in arms about local library closures due to city budget cuts
Newark Public Library faces staff, service cuts due to N.J. budget
Concerned Newark residents speak out against drastic cuts to library services
Newark residents hold reading vigil in effort to revive Newark Public Library

“One of the advantages that we had was the Newark Public Library”

Michael A. Uhde, Lifelong Newark Resident (Source: Press Release)

“The cuts translate into $2.45 million from our budget.” “When you consider that the proposed cuts for next year will be double, that will mean the demise of the Library.”

Wilma Grey, Library Director (Source: Press Release)

Save My NJ Library