Special Bulletin 4-22

Friends of the Oakland Public Library

"Public libraries receive less than 1% of all tax dollars and are used by more than 50 percent of the population."

- from the American Library Assn.'s 'Quotable Facts About America's Libraries'

Main Library Mural

April 22, 2003

To Friends of the Oakland Public Library –

Once again the libraries are threatened!

Back in January of this year, we called for your action and support to save our libraries. The community responded – and the libraries were saved – but only for a short while. Once again the budget deficit is threatening our libraries.

We have been vigilant and promised to let you know about proposed cuts to library service. On April 14^th the City Manager released a preliminary list of reductions being considered for the 2003-05 budget. Under consideration are proposals to close one branch in each of seven council districts, and making branch service hours consistent citywide, at five days per week (four branches are currently open six days per week). In the SF Chronicle last week, City Manager Robert Bobb said that the list “an early warning signal. It gives the public an opportunity to give us their feedback” before the budget is finalized. We must give him our feedback.

The Mayor is scheduled to release the budget on May 2^nd. The budget is then expected to appear on the Council’s agenda in May, possibly at the meeting on May 20th. The City expects to adopt the 2003-05 budget in June prior the start of the new fiscal year on July 1st. The next two months are critical!

What you can do

	Stay informed. Watch for budget updates at the Friends website -- www.fopl.org or check for information at your local library. Check the City Council's agenda on the Internet http://www.oaklandnet.com/government/council/agendas-calendars.cfm
	Contact your elected representatives or speak at a City Council meeting. Letters, phone calls, faxes and e-mails all contribute to letting your representatives know how important the libraries are to you.
	Promote membership in FOPL. The Oakland Public Library needs friends now more than ever. Ask a Friend to be a Friend of the Library. Click here for a membership form.