Mayoral Forum on Libraries Held August 30, 2013

On August 30, 2013, Citizens Defending Libraries and the Committee to Save the New York Public Library are co-sponsoring a Mayoral Forum on New York City Libraries to ask candidates to detail their positions on one of the most under-reported issues of the campaign.  All the city's libraries all across the city are being funded at unprecedentedly low levels, but usage is up 40% problematically, 59% in terms of circulation and the city is growing- The underfunding is being used as an excuse to do something else: Sell libraries and in the process substantially shrink their space and the resources in the library system.

The podcast of the event may be listened to here: Mayoral Forum on Libraries Held August 30, 2013.
(Link: http:/bobrowen.com/podcasts/Mayoral Forum Libraries 130830.mp3)

(In addition you may be interested in: Public Advocates and Comptroller Candidates Forum on Libraries Held September 4, 2013.)

In addition to the questions asked and answered by the candidates at this event, candidates for New York City office have been asked and are responding to Citizens Defending Libraries' questionnaire, both available here: Citizens Defending Libraries Questions For Candidates For New York City Offices.

Positions of candidates not attending the forum were also reviewed.  Here is a preview.

Above, (from Brooklyn Eagle) Christine Quinn coordinating in event with BPL President Linda Johnson (they both favor shrinking libraries) and City Councilman Vincent Gentile from Council's library committee.  Quinn's Campaign promoted here?: City's smaller libraries would also make good "mini" city halls.

The Central Library Plan involves the drastic reduction of more than 380,000 square feet of space down to only 80,000 square feet with the sale of the Mid-Manhattan Library and SIBL (the Science Industry and Business Library) and the destruction of the research stacks of the 42nd Street Central Rerfenec Library.  Here is City Council Speaker Christine Quinn's press release statement of what she thinks of that plan:

"This visionary project by the New York Public Library, embodied in this beautiful building by Norman Foster, is central to this great institution’s evolution as a vital part of our city, as it has been for over a century.  I applaud NYPL for listening and heeding the concerns of the stakeholders, and for crafting a project that sensitively addresses its dual mission as a great center of scholarship—and as the people’s library for all New Yorkers—for the next century."

For more on this see: Response of Mayoral Candidate Christine Quinn to Citizens Defending Libraries Questions For Candidates For New York City Offices.

Bill de Blasio with Citizens Defending Libraries calling for a halt to Central Library Plan and sell-offs of libraries

Here is some of what New York City Public Advocate Bill de Blasio has said about the Central Libary Plan:

"I am writing to express my deep concern over the proposed changes to the City’s library systems in Manhattan and Brooklyn. I am calling on the City to halt the New York Public Library’s plans at the Central Library, and for a thorough, independent cost audit and review of the proposed project. In addition, I am calling for a reconsideration of the Brooklyn Public Library’s plans for the Brooklyn Heights and Pacific branches until a similar review can be completed.

The City’s three public library systems are critical public cultural institutions and have served our City well – supporting scholars and independent researchers, providing resources and services for immigrants and job-seekers, and serving as an intellectual home and refuge for life-long learners and avid readers. Over the past 12 years, these institutions have faced budget cuts and public divestment, struggled to meet operating costs, forced to reduce hours and services, and suffered from hundreds of millions of dollars in deferred maintenance on aging air conditioners, boilers, computers and roofs. But these fiscal challenges are not a rationale to engage in drastic measures – if anything, they underscore the need for prudence, frugality and caution."

For more on this see: PHOTOS & VIDEO & MORE- First half of July 2013: Two lawsuits against the Central Library Plan, Public Advocate Bill de Blasio Comes Out Against CLP.

Not seen in the photos or videos below are John Catsimatidis and Anthony Weiner, who did not show up for their reserved time slots.  Joe Lhota has asked to meet with Citizens Defending Libraries at another time before the primaries. (For better viewing of the videos click on the links to to to Citizens Defending Libraries YouTube Channel.)

Randy Credico, by Mike Delia

Randy Credico: 

"This is as fundamental to the health of this city as health care; the library system. That’s how I feel.

* * *  
I don’t trust this guy Marx at all [Anthony Marx, the President of the NYPL].  I’d trust Groucho Marx more than this guy Marx.

* * * 
They want to sell them [Libraries] off the same way they want to sell the schools off, to the biggest bidder.  Real estate controls this city."

Randy Credico Speaks At Mayoral Forum on NYC Libraries

Anthony Gronowicz, Randy Credico, by Mike DeliaAnthony Gronowicz:  

Anthony Gronowicz:

“If you look at the Fiscal Policy Institute, the city has never had such a great disparity between wealth and poverty since slave days.  I am not kidding: I did a book called `Race And Class Politics In New York City Before The Civil War.’ 

* * *  

Obviously, I would not cut library hours: I would expend library hours.  I would go after the money that’s in New York.  In 1978 the top 1% owned 9% of the assets in this City.   As of 2011, according to the Fiscal Policy Institute, it is 45%, which pushed it into the 19th Century.  Alright?  So this is so obvious to me, that they don’t want people who are literate.”

Anthony Gronowicz Speaks At Mayoral Forum on NYC Libraries

John Liu, by Mike Delia

 John Liu:

"One of the things I’ve been very cognizant of, is these claims we don’t have money for this or that.  We’ve got plenty of money.  This is a very wealthy city.  It’s just a case of how that wealth is being allocated or directed and I think in many ways over the past administration it has been directed into the wrong places in a way that has exacerbated the wealth gap in this city far greater than in any other part of the country.

And, when you talk about the public libraries and other public assets, this is one of the public issues that I’ve been very vociferous about: The fact that this administration wants to sell everything off.  And it seems to be accelerating its efforts on its way out.. . .

The idea that these libraries need additional funding and therefore we should sell of the public libraries to private developers who then claim to fund the construction or the reconstruction of the libraries: I think that’s an argument that’s not well-grounded in actual results over the past recent years.  Because we have seen many examples of space being taken and the communities coming into an agreement with the administration and/or the developer and the promises not being fulfilled. In the many years.  Atlantic Yards would be one GI-NORMOUS example of what’s NOT happened

* * *

There’s a huge credibility gap if you ask me.  And it’s not just the libraries.  It’s also NYCHA properties, the New York City Housing Authority playgrounds and public space, the community centers, the parking lots.

* * *

Once you give up public land you never get it back.  It’s a one-way street.

* * *  

I’ll do everything I can as comptroller to stop these deals from going forward, and as mayor I’m going to be a mayor for the public libraries.

* * *

There’s plenty of wealth in this city. It’s just a matter of how we allocate it.  It’s actually a $70.5  Billion budget this year. . . And yet we have to nickel and dime the people who go to the libraries every year because of this budget dance?

John Liu Speaks At Mayoral Forum on NYC Libraries

Sal Albanese, by Mike Delia

Sal Albanese:

“These libraries are essential to the city’s future and we are watching the erosion of it. The real estate industry is running amuck, basically, in this city.  That’s what’s happening.  I’ve drawn a very, very clear line when it comes to contributions.  I am not accepting a dime from real estate developers in this city or the lobbyists who represent them.

Look, real estate developers are business people.  They want to maximize their profits.  They see these huge building, these great buildings, these landmarked buildings like the libraries in Manhattan and Brooklyn Height and they see dollar signs, but the bottom line is that government officials should be making decisions on the merits.

They shouldn’t be working with the real esate industry behind the scenes to sell these libraries off.  We saw what happened with the Donnell Library, it was sold off in 2007.  There was no public input at all.  Where was the City Council?  It’s easy to blame Bloomberg, but we do have a City Council.  We have a Public Advocate.  We have a Comptroller.  These things don’t happen by accident.  They’re not happening in isolation.  I mean where was the public hearing on these issues that are so important to the city?  The City Council does have a library committee, I think.

* * *

The political system is really broken and has really been co-opted by big money.  The New York Times has a great editorial today about the real estate industry is now piling on to get involved in City Council races.  They’re spending millions of dollars.  Look, they’re in business.  This is what they do.  It’s legal.  But elected officials have the obligation to represent the public, not folks who are trying to maximize their profits.. . .

* * *

Here we do things in an opaque way.  It’s not transparent.

* * *

Listen carefully to what all the candidates say.  I’ve said this before: They're outraged . .  They’re furious. . . They’re shocked.  You’d think they were block association presidents.  One is the Comptroller, one is the Public Advocate, one is the Council Speaker!  I mean I can’t believe the incredible nerve of some of these people, because they should be held accountable for some of the things that have happened in this city on their watch.          

* * *

The City Council should have held major hearings.  It was a major issue and no one seems to know where $100 million in capital money or how it got to that point without any real hearing or public input.  That’s the crux of our problem.  It’s a broken political system.

* * *

It’s just wrong and it’s bad public policy.  I mean, William Rudin from the real estate industry was front and center in terms of the proposals to sell off the libraries [in the Central Library Plan], and they see tremendous opportunities for huge profits like the sale of Saint Vincent’s Hospital so I think it’s bad pubic policy. . . .”

Sal Albanese Speaks At Mayoral Forum on NYC Libraries

George McDonald, by Mike Delia

George McDonald:

"I think libraries are a very important part of the future that I believe affects all of us. . .

. . . I wasn’t from a wealthy family.  I went to the libraries. .  And that’s really why I am here today. . ..

* * *

The failure of our educational process in New York City is what I deal with every day. . . . I am a proponent of something other than arresting people.

* * *

. . We have to get underneath what the police are doing and what are we doing as a society. .

. . .Why is it a high crime area?  Because we haven’t educated the children.  We haven’t provided opportunities for them.  I believe that the schools and the libraries are community resources that should be available, basically twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

And if we have made all of this investment in the luxury of our city, I think it’s time we made the investment at the bottom.  Now I am the only one in this race who talks about helping the poor people.  You’ll hear people come and say `middle class’ 92 times in a minute and a half.  And that’s their message: `middle class,’ `middle class,’ `middle class.’  We won’t have any middle class in New York City if we continue to go on the way that we’re going.  So helping the people at the bottom is the most critical thing that we can do.  And the way to do that , first, is through education, and a critical part of education is reading and literacy in our library system.

* * *

I wouldn’t give waivers.  I want to see more librarians.  I want to see more libraries.  I want to see the libraries become community resources.

* * *

I am opposed to it [the Central Library Plan].  I just don’t think we should be selling off any more of our resources.  I think that we’ve done enough.  I think that we’ve certainly developed this city to get maximum tax revenue from all of these new luxury developments.  I think that we ought to put the emphasis on what I said.

* * *

I don’t want to sell any libraries [including Brooklyn Heights and Pacific Street].  I think they’re a community resource.  Now if we have to invest in improving it, I would like to do that. Rather than sell it for real estate redevelopment, why can’t we take the other approach?

* * * [On the subject of nondisparagement confidentiality agreements library administration officials are having librarians sign.] You know at the Doe Fund we have a thousand people now.  I mean we’re a big organization.  You see the guys in the uniforms.  They’re out there every day.  You can go up to them and talk t them without me or any public relations person from our organization saying so.   You can ask them: Hey, what’s this McDonald like or what’s this Doe Fund like or didn’t they treat you well?  And there’s no filter. And they don’t sign any agreement that they’re not going to talk about the program!  If there is something wrong they’re going to express that and I am not afraid of that.  And we’ve been doing that for twenty years.. . . You have to have input from the people who are actually doing the work to find out what needs to be improved.  So I would welcome that, not try to punish people for it."

George McDonald Speaks At Mayoral Forum on NYC Libraries Pt 1



George McDonald Speaks At Mayoral Forum on NYC Libraries Pt 2



De Blasio & Quinn Positions on NYC Libraries Read by Michael D. D. White

Questions For Friday August 30, 2013 Mayoral Forum

The following questions were submitted to the candidates beforehand

    1.    New York City is growing (including in wealth) and public library usage is up very substantially, 40% programmatically and 59% in terms of circulation, yet libraries are currently being funded at their lowest level in years, a drastic reduction from the past.  Do you favor this low level of funding or believe that funding should be restored at least to, or above, the level that libraries were funded in the past?

    2.    Are you in favor of or do you oppose the sale of libraries, public assets of the library system and the reductions of library space (including such sales and reductions as have been proposed by the New York Public Library and Brooklyn Public Library)?  Please explain.

    3.    More specifically, are you opposed to, in favor of, or neutral about the following proposed library sales, shrinkages and consolidating of library assets (Please explain and amplify your stated position–Note that one of the sales and reductions has already occurred– Donnell– while others are proposed and/or in progress):
        a.    The Donnell Library at 53rd Street across from MoMA between Fifth and Sixth Avenues
        b.    SIBIL, the Science, Industry and Business Library, (its sale is considered to be part of the NYPL’s “CLP,” Central Library Plan)
        c.    Mid-Manhattan (its sale is also considered to be part of the CLP)
        d.    Demolition and removal of research stacks underneath the Central Reference Library at 42nd Street and Fifth Avenue (its sale is also considered to be part of the CLP).
        e.    The NYPL’s “Central Library Plan” (involving the consolidating shrinkage of the libraries noted above)
        f.    The Brooklyn Heights Library (the operations of which function on a combined and integrated basis with the Business and Career Library in the building)
        g.    The Pacific Branch Library at 4th Avenue and Pacific in Brooklyn
        h.    The Clinton Hill Library in Brooklyn
        i.    All other libraries in Brooklyn that the BPL might consider similarly selling or leveraging as a stated part of the strategic plan it published
        j.    Other libraries NYPL might decide to similarly sell and shrink, such as libraries in Harlem, North Manhattan, Staten Island or other parts of Manhattan or the Bronx.
        NOTE: The Central Library Plan involving Mid-Manhattan, SIBL and the Central Reference Library stack destruction involves reducing more than 380,000 square feet of library space to 80,000.  The Donnell sale for shrinkage and redevelopment reduced the 97,000 square foot library to 28,000 square feet of mostly underground, mostly bookless space that won’t be available until at least 2015, eight years after sale of the library was announced .  The planned sale of the Brooklyn Heights Library reduces about 62,000 square feet of space to 20,000 square feet (originally proposed to be only 15,000 sq ft), as much of a quarter of the reduced space being placed underground.

    4.    Many people consider it an indication of a problematic mind-set on the part of decision makers that libraries are being sold for what they believe are very inadequate prices: The 97,000 sq. ft. Donnell Library, much of it recently renovated, was sold to net the NYPL only $39 million while the penthouse in the fifty-story building replacing it is on the market for $60 million and SIBL was recently completed using substantial public funds for $100 million but 87% of it was just sold for $60.8 million.  Are you opposed to the sale and shrinkage of library assets in general or do you accept sale and shrinkage if you consider that ‘an adequate price’ is obtained for the sale?  If the latter; please describe what you believe to be an ‘adequate price’?

    5.    Are you opposed to the sale of library space and assets in general or would you accept the sale of libraries if they were not being shrunk (or were being increased in size) and you considered that ‘an adequate price’ was being obtained for the sale?  Again, if the latter please describe what you believe to be an ‘adequate price.’  Alternatively, if you believe that the presumption should always be that libraries should not be available for sale or redevelopment because of such things as the disruptions and hardship caused and the way a generation of children and other will be significantly deprived of services, please elaborate upon this point of view.

    6.    There is now a demand for internet and electronic services at the library.  Although a Pew poll shows that younger readers strongly prefer physical books, ebooks now make up 20% of the book market.  In some cases libraries are the only place to access certain electronic data and services (often requiring assistance of a librarian to do so).  Most people believe that libraries should now provide computer and electronic services (“bridging the digital divide” for those needing such service), which may require even more space.  Notwithstanding, do you believe that there is an adequate justification for NYC libraries to be effecting substantial reductions in the inventories of physical books available for those visiting at libraries, even in the face of increased demand?  Please explain your position.

    7.    Do you believe the libraries should be reducing professional library staff, or increasing such staff of at least maintaining the level of such professionals available to assist the public?

    8.    Some believe that professionally trained librarians are often in the best position to comment knowledgeably on the directions in which the New York City library system is being steered, but actions are being taken to silence such staff and prevent them from commenting, including directives to staff, loyalty oaths and “nondisparagement” (confidentiality) agreements the NYPL wants departing librarians to sign in return for severance.  Do you condone such silencing policies or feel they should be considered to be contrary to public policy?

    9.    Do you believe that the currently ongoing sell-offs of libraries and shrinkage of library space should be investigated and/or audited by appropriate government authorities?  Please elaborate.

    10.    City funding is to be used to pay for some of the library sell-offs and shrinkage (including, in June of 2012, the City Council’s release of $150 million taxpayer capitol funding for the Central Library Plan): Do you feel there should be required predicates to such city funding such as economic impact studies and/or hearings and what failures, if any, do you feel there has been in this regard?

    11.    Please speak about how you see sell-off, shrinkage and underfunding of libraries as relating to the proposed sell-off and/or privatization of other public assets such as schools (for instance, similarly, for redevelopment), public housing properties, parks and hospitals.

    12.    Officials currently estimate that more than half of the city's high schools (now under mayoral control) are in violation of NYS Department of Education regulations that require schools to employ either part-time or full-time librarians, depending on enrollment (possibly making the alternative of NYC’s public libraries a more important resource for those students).  Now, the NYC Department of Education is asking for a waiver to excuse its failure to meet this state regulatory requirement (no district in the state has ever been granted such a waiver), a move being legally opposed by the teachers union.  What is your position on this issue?

Candidates attending the forum had the option of submitting supplemental questions addressed to other candidates.  The Following was submitted.

    13.    Randy Credico (addressed to Joe Lhota):  I would like to ask Joe Lhota if he would support my wall street half percent sales tax to underwrite, among other things, the reopening of closed libraries, and to protect and expand the nypl system.

EXTRA CREDIT: The following questions delving more deeply on the subject of the NYPL”s Central Library Plan were not furnished to the candidates beforehand but may, at their option be addressed for “extra credit.”

    14.    The 42nd Street Library was paid for, built and is now owned by the City of New York. Why has the city government failed to hold public hearings on major changes being proposed by its tenant, the Trustees of the New York Public Library?

    15.    Why have there been no public hearings on the expenditure of $ 150 million in taxpayer money for major changes to one of the most celebrated city owned buildings.

    16.    The "stacks" at NYPL are not a designated interior landmark, but they are owned by the city, as is the library building of which they are an integral part. Should the city insist on nothing more than the routine working of the landmark commission, or should it more actively insist on preservation of city owned buildings?

    17.    Should public/private partnerships such as those between NYC and NYPL cause the suspension of ordinary rules requiring competitive bids, union and minority participation, and public scrutiny? What do you propose to do to as mayor to reform public/private partnerships?

    18.    After one public hearing, the NYC Landmarks Commission turned the unresolved design issues relating to the changes to the 42nd Street Library over to the staff. This made any further public input of scrutiny impossible. As mayor, will you appoint an architect to be the Landmarks Commissioner? Will you insist on the protection of city owned landmarks? How will your policy differ from that of the current administration?

    19.    Is it wasteful and unwise for the city to allow the NYPL to sell the Mid Manhattan library when the purchase and remodeling of the building was subsidized by city and state taxpayers?

Response of Public Advocate Candidate James Lane to Citizens Defending Libraries Questions For Candidates For New York City Offices

Citizens Defending Libraries is requesting candidates for New York City political offices to answer questions with respect libraries (posted on its we pages August 13, 2013).  Below are the responses to these questions furnished by Public Advocate candidate James Lane.  In addition to those questions Mr. lane also answered (see belwo) the additional questions that were submitted to Public Advocate and Comptroller candidates at the Citizens Defending Libraries candidates forum:  Public Advocates and Comptroller Candidates Forum on Libraries Held September 4, 2013.

To find out what other candidates provided responses (and navigate to them) go to the Citizens Defending Libraries August 13, 2013 posting.

Questions and Responses From James Lane:

1.    New York City is growing (including in wealth) and public library usage is up very substantially, 40% programmatically and 59% in terms of circulation, yet libraries are currently being funded at their lowest level in years, a drastic reduction from the past.  Do you favor this low level of funding or believe that funding should be restored at least to, or above, the level that libraries were funded in the past?

James Lane: As stated in this question our city is growing and usage of the public library is up, that alone states that we should not be reducing its budget, but instead we should be coming up with more creative ideas on how to increase funding to our libraries and help make them more sustainable for future growth. Libraries need to have their facilities and staff expanded to better meet the increased demand of the people. As the Green Party candidate for public advocate one of the first things that I would like to do is examine our city budget for the past 30 years and share these findings with the public to clearly show that there is money available to save our public libraries, schools, firehouses and health care systems if we stop giving huge tax benefits to the wealthy 1% and redistributing those funds back to the 99% that truly need them.

2.    Are you in favor of or do you oppose the sale of libraries, public assets of the library system and the reductions of library space (including such sales and reductions as have been proposed by the New York Public Library and Brooklyn Public Library)?  Please explain.

James Lane: I am strongly opposed of the sale, shrinkage and consolidation of our public libraries and their assets and the reduction of their space. I feel that if the public was made more aware of this issue that we would be having massive protests in the streets as libraries should not be considered as storage facilities for housing massive volumes of printed material. They are much more than that. Our public libraries serve as childhood to senior education centers, internet communication facilities and meeting spaces to name of the vital resources they provide to our community.

3.    More specifically, are you opposed to, in favor of, or neutral about the following proposed library sales, shrinkages and consolidating of library assets (Please explain and amplify your stated position–Note that one of the sales and reductions has already occurred– Donnell– while others are proposed and/or in progress):

    a.    The Donnell Library at 53rd Street across from MoMA between Fifth and Sixth Avenues
    b.    SIBIL, the Science, Industry and Business Library, (its sale is considered to be part of the NYPL’s “CLP,” Central Library Plan)
    c.    Mid-Manhattan (its sale is also considered to be part of the CLP)
    d.    Demolition and removal of research stacks underneath the Central Reference Library at 42nd Street and Fifth Avenue (its sale is also considered to be part of the CLP).
    e.    The NYPL’s “Central Library Plan” (involving the consolidating shrinkage of the libraries noted above)
    f.    The Brooklyn Heights Library (the operations of which function on a combined and integrated basis with the Business and Career Library in the building)
    g.    The Pacific Branch Library at 4th Avenue and Pacific in Brooklyn
    h.    The Clinton Hill Library in Brooklyn
    i.    All other libraries in Brooklyn that the BPL might consider similarly selling or leveraging as a stated part of the strategic plan it published
    j.    Other libraries NYPL might decide to similarly sell and shrink, such as libraries in Harlem, North Manhattan, Staten Island or other parts of Manhattan or the Bronx.

    NOTE: The Central Library Plan involving Mid-Manhattan, SIBL and the Central Reference Library stack destruction involves reducing more than 380,000 square feet of library space to 80,000.  The Donnell sale for shrinkage and redevelopment reduced the 97,000 square foot library to 28,000 square feet of mostly underground, mostly bookless space that won’t be available until at least 2015, eight years after sale of the library was announced .  The planned sale of the Brooklyn Heights Library reduces about 62,000 square feet of space to 20,000 square feet (originally proposed to be only 15,000 sq ft), as much of a quarter of the reduced space being placed underground.

James Lane:  I am strongly opposed of the sale, shrinkage and consolidation of our public libraries so my answer would be redundant for each one of these proposals. There are no benefits to the community and selling off, shrinking down and consolidating to a so-called Central Library plan. In fact, these plans would only result in a financial profit to wealthy real estate developers that are just trying to obtain these properties at bargain basement prices without providing the public any benefits for the spaces they will have taken away from the people.

4.    Many people consider it an indication of a problematic mind-set on the part of decision makers that libraries are being sold for what they believe are very inadequate prices: The 97,000 sq. ft. Donnell Library, much of it recently renovated, was sold to net the NYPL only $39 million while the penthouse in the fifty-story building replacing it is on the market for $60 million and SIBL was recently completed using substantial public funds for $100 million but 87% of it was just sold for $60.8 million.  Are you opposed to the sale and shrinkage of library assets in general or do you accept sale and shrinkage if you consider that ‘an adequate price’ is obtained for the sale?  If the latter; please describe what you believe to be an ‘adequate price’?

James Lane:  I am strongly opposed of the sale and shrinkage of library assets and feel that there is no such thing as an adequate price in this discussion. These disgustingly low sale prices being quoted are way below value in a grossly inflated real estate market. This further highlights the greed and lack of public insight that occurs when these evil behind closed door deals are crafted. As the Green Party candidate for public advocate I will make it my duty to serve as the city’s watchdog and work to prevent deals that involve selling off public property to private developers.

5.    Are you opposed to the sale of library space and assets in general or would you accept the sale of libraries if they were not being shrunk (or were being increased in size) and you considered that ‘an adequate price’ was being obtained for the sale?  Again, if the latter please describe what you believe to be an ‘adequate price.’  Alternatively, if you believe that the presumption should always be that libraries should not be available for sale or redevelopment because of such things as the disruptions and hardship caused and the way a generation of children and other will be significantly deprived of services, please elaborate upon this point of view. 

James Lane:  I am strongly opposed of the sale library space and assets and feel that there is no such thing as an adequate price in this discussion. Selling of library space and assets would cause huge disruptions and hardships to the local communities in which they reside. Speaking from personal experience I grew up in Harlem during the 1970s where street crime and random acts of violence occurred on a pretty regular basis. For example if you are hanging out on the street corner with a group of friends with nothing to do, there would be a high probability that by the end of that day some altercation would occur to make that situation turn out badly in the end. So as an alternative I would spend a lot of my time after school and on weekends at the library casually browsing through books and learning more about the things that interested me as a child. As I got older the libraries provided me with the quiet place to study to prepare reports and homework assignments. As an adult the library was the first place I was directed to for finding out information about my original birth records when at the age of 23 I found out that I was adopted after both of the parents that raised me had just passed away. As a father my son and I frequently read together and going to the library is one of our favorite things to do when go on our “adventures”.

6.    There is now a demand for internet and electronic services at the library.  Although a Pew poll shows that younger readers strongly prefer physical books, ebooks now make up 20% of the book market.  In some cases libraries are the only place to access certain electronic data and services (often requiring assistance of a librarian to do so).  Most people believe that libraries should now provide computer and electronic services (“bridging the digital divide” for those needing such service), which may require even more space.  Notwithstanding, do you believe that there is an adequate justification for NYC libraries to be effecting substantial reductions in the inventories of physical books available for those visiting at libraries, even in the face of increased demand?  Please explain your position.

James Lane:   I can understand the demand for Internet electronics of services at the library but I do not understand why we would sacrifice current space to make way for new technologies. But we need to do is see how we can build upon the existing space that we currently have and make way for further self sustainable growth in the future. For example, there are many public libraries that are 1 to 2 stories tall and I feel that adding an additional story with adequate space provided on the rooftop to how solar panels is an example of how you can expand on the currents infrastructure and reduce possible energy costs. As a Green party candidate for public advocate I am committed to working with small businesses and public institutions on how to expand on their current space if needed and use those opportunities to help in creating a clean green money saving alternatives.

7.    Do you believe the libraries should be reducing professional library staff, or increasing such staff of at least maintaining the level of such professionals available to assist the public?

James Lane:  I believe there should be no reduction in professional library staff in fact based on current figures of usage that we should in fact be discussing ways to hire more professional librarians to assist the public. As a Green party candidate for public advocate I feel there are job opportunities available in our public libraries and possibly revenue-generating trainings that librarians could help conduct if they were interested in doing so.

8.    Some believe that professionally trained librarians are often in the best position to comment knowledgeably on the directions in which the New York City library system is being steered, but actions are being taken to silence such staff and prevent them from commenting, including directives to staff, loyalty oaths and “nondisparagement” (confidentiality) agreements the NYPL wants departing librarians to sign in return for severance.  Do you condone such silencing policies or feel they should be considered to be contrary to public policy?

James Lane:  It is inconceivable to me why the New York City public library system is imposing gag orders on departing librarians. What is the NYPL of trying to hide? This is a clear indication that something far more sinister is going on under our noses and must be thoroughly investigated. As a Green party candidate for public advocate I will serve as a champion for social justice to librarians that are being forced to signed confidentiality agreements in return for severance.

9.    Do you believe that the currently ongoing sell-offs of libraries and shrinkage of library space should be investigated and/or audited by appropriate government authorities?  Please elaborate.

James Lane:  I believe this practice of selling off and shrinking our public libraries need to be thoroughly investigated. As a Green party candidate for public advocate I will use the legal resources available to me and work with the appropriate government authorities to fully investigate and bring an end to this practice. 

10.    City funding is to be used to pay for some of the library sell-offs and shrinkage (including, in June of 2012, the City Council’s release of $150 million taxpayer capitol funding for the Central Library Plan): Do you feel there should be required predicates to such city funding such as economic impact studies and/or hearings and what failures, if any, do you feel there has been in this regard?

James Lane:  Why is our city government funding the destruction of our educational system? This is yet another reason why I was so moved to run as a Green party candidate for public advocate. We cannot take away money from schools and at the same time spend $150 million of taxpayer funds to a plan that further works towards removing libraries from our children.

11.    The City has pledged $150 million to the Central Library Plan. But there have been no public hearings on using taxpayer money to alter 42nd Street, which was paid for, built, and is still owned by the City. Will you promise to hold hearings on radical changes to one of New York's greatest landmarks?

James Lane:  As a Green party candidate for public advocate I promise to make sure that we have multiple public hearings in regards to all of our libraries as well as other publicly used resources. Currently, most public hearings happen at times which are inconvenient for most of our city residents to get to. I propose that if we are going to have any future public hearings on this and other matters that affect our city residents that they are made available at three convenient times for that day for example early morning midday and after work. Additionally, I pledge to have weekly press conferences from the steps of City Hall to further inform the public of any public hearings going on for the upcoming week to further add visibility on our city government is or is not properly working for its residents.

12.    Please speak about how you see sell-off, shrinkage and underfunding of libraries as relating to the proposed sell-off and/or privatization of other public assets such as schools (for instance, similarly, for redevelopment), public housing properties, parks and hospitals.

James Lane:  I see the sell-off and shrinkage and underfunding of libraries as laziness and greed by the powers that are moving these discussions in this direction. By immediately going to developers who are just looking for the best property at the cheapest price seems to be a quick fix with no insight as to how it will affect the community in the end. As a Green party candidate for public advocate, I will work tirelessly to collect the needs of the people that are currently being affected by the lack of firehouses, hospitals, housing, libraries, parks and schools to help develop alternative solutions that do not require the selling off of public resources.

13.    Officials currently estimate that more than half of the city's high schools (now under mayoral control) are in violation of NYS Department of Education regulations that require schools to employ either part-time or full-time librarians, depending on enrollment (possibly making the alternative of NYC’s public libraries a more important resource for those students).  Now, the NYC Department of Education is asking for a waiver to excuse its failure to meet this state regulatory requirement (no district in the state has ever been granted such a waiver), a move being legally opposed by the teachers union.  What is your position on this issue and what is the role of the Public Advocate/Comptroller respecting this?

James Lane:  As the Green party candidate for public advocate my first task would be to investigate why some schools are not able to employ either part-time or full-time librarians for their schools and work with the city government to help allocate additional budgets internally if that’s all that is needed. Our current mayor of course loves to quote figures on how public education has improved so much under his control, but in fact we are seeing time and time again failures such as this. As the city’s public advocate, I will work to organize parents and teachers to determine what is really crucial for the proper education our New York City. As of right now much of the funding is being determined on standards that do not necessarily build a well rounded education. I’ve seen schools penalized by budgeting cut, because they believe in alternative teaching methods and reduced classroom sizes that actually produce more “thinking” individuals, rather than robots that have solely been trained on passing a standardized test. There is money available in our city to fund our schools and libraries, we just need to get the money flowing in the right direction again.

14.    The New York Public Library plans to close two big midtown libraries and radically alter the 42nd Street Library. Yet there has not been a single NYC public hearing. (Assemblyman Micah Kellner is holding state level hearings.)

James Lane:  If elected, will you hold hearings on the sell-off of public property? As a Green party candidate for public advocate I promise to make sure that we have multiple public hearings in regards to the selling of any public property. Also, I pledge to have these public hearings on this and other matters that affect our city residents that they are made available at three convenient times for that day for example early morning midday and after work. Additionally, I pledge to have weekly press conferences from the steps of City Hall to further inform the public of any public hearings going on for the upcoming week to further add visibility on our city government is or is not properly working for its residents.

15.    Would the City's $150 million be better used for branch libraries that are in desperate need of capital improvements? (Jacob Morris recently asked this question about Harlem's Macomb's Bridge Library in The Daily News.)

James Lane:  The city’s hundred $150 million would be best used in publicly visible fund with clearly illustrates to all residents of the city what areas need development and what percentage of the money each one is to receive. Then we will have an opportunity to have public hearings in regards to those proposed spending. As the Green Party candidate for public advocate I want to correct the wrongs that our current city government has done in regards to their past budgeting decisions and create a truly fair and healthy city for people to live and work in.

16.    The Committee to Save the New York Public Library has called for an independent agency to make public a detailed cost analysis of the CLP, including cost overruns. Is that an appropriate oversight for the Public Advocate or Comptroller?

James Lane:  As the Green Party candidate for public advocate I represent an independent outlook and feel this is 100% an appropriate oversight for my office to own as in many cases the creation of “an independent agency” uses people or resources that are already biased by the wealthy 1% and the two party political system that they control.

17.    The NYPL Board of Trustees wants to close the Mid-Manhattan Library, the most used in the nation, and alter the landmark 42nd Street Library at a cost of more than $300 million. It would cost less than half that to renovate the Mid-Manhattan. Should the City save Mid-Manhattan and keep the 42nd Street library intact?

James Lane:  As the Green Party candidate for public advocate I feel the NYPL Board of Trustees need to be thoroughly investigated as to what their current decision making processes are. It’s as if they’re using our city is a giant Monopoly board and selling off all the public properties that are New York City residents need with the sole motivation lining their own pockets. This blatant disregard for the rights of the people of the city will not be tolerated by me or anyone on my staff at the public advocate’s office. The public libraries belong to the public and if there any decisions to be made in regards to the selling of them then they must go to the fullest extent of properly informing the public of their motives.

18.    NYPL plans to sell the Mid-Manhattan Library and the new Science, Industry and Business Library. But these buildings were subsidized by City and State taxpayers as well as being financed by donation intended for the public benefit. Should the City hold hearings on the sale of public assets?

James Lane:  As a Green party candidate for public advocate I pledge to stop all proposed sales of these New York Public libraries until a thorough investigation of the Board of Trustees and their motives have been completed. The city should always conduct public hearings when ever the sale of a public asset is in jeopardy. These buildings and the spaces they occupy belong to the people and need to be respected as the people’s property and not the property of the rich and powerful few.

19.    The CLP will demolish the historic stacks that hold 3 million books at 42nd Street. The stacks are not landmarked, but the building is. Should the City insist on the preservation of City-owned buildings?

James Lane:  As a Green party candidate for public advocate I believe in preserving city-owned buildings and rather than demolishing them restoring them with new clean green technologies that will help in reducing their operating costs and serve as a model for future construction opportunities. On a personal note as a lover of the interior of libraries and their stacks I would fully support a campaign of public awareness and civil disobedience (perhaps with people chaining themselves to the stacks) against the destruction of these.

20.    Should public/private partnerships such as those between NYC and NYPL suspend the ordinary rules requiring competitive bids, union and minority participation, and public scrutiny? How would you reform public/private partnerships?

James Lane:  As the Green party candidate for public advocate I will closely monitor and report back to the public all findings that my department gathers in these public/private partnerships. My role as public advocate is to serve as the people watchdog and I feel that this job can be much more effective than our current public advocate has chose to make it.

* * * *
Again, to find out what other candidates provided responses (and navigate to them) go to the Citizens Defending Libraries August 13, 2013 posting.

Response of Public Advocate Candidate Tish James to Citizens Defending Libraries Questions For Candidates For New York City Offices

Citizens Defending Libraries is requesting candidates for New York City political offices to answer questions with respect libraries (posted on its we pages August 13, 2013).  Below are the responses to these questions furnished by Public Advocate candidate Tish (Letitia) James.

To find out what other candidates provided responses (and navigate to them) go to the Citizens Defending Libraries August 13, 2013 posting.

Questions and Responses From Tish James:

1.    New York City is growing (including in wealth) and public library usage is up very substantially, 40% programmatically and 59% in terms of circulation, yet libraries are currently being funded at their lowest level in years, a drastic reduction from the past.  Do you favor this low level of funding or believe that funding should be restored at least to, or above, the level that libraries were funded in the past?

Tish James: We need to restore library funding to a level that ensures 6-7 day a week access to library services in all branches. We must further freeze layoffs throughout the public library systems, and retain both our invaluable library employees, as well as our public library spaces.

2.    Are you in favor of or do you oppose the sale of libraries, public assets of the library system and the reductions of library space (including such sales and reductions as have been proposed by the New York Public Library and Brooklyn Public Library)?  Please explain.

Tish James:  I refer you to my Huffington Post on this issue:  Shrinking the Library System Is A Loss for New Yorkers - 08/21/2013  http://www.huffingtonpost.com/letitia-james/shrinking-the-library-sys_b_3430298.html

3.    More specifically, are you opposed to, in favor of, or neutral about the following proposed library sales, shrinkages and consolidating of library assets (Please explain and amplify your stated position–Note that one of the sales and reductions has already occurred– Donnell– while others are proposed and/or in progress):

    a.    The Donnell Library at 53rd Street across from MoMA between Fifth and Sixth Avenues
    b.    SIBIL, the Science, Industry and Business Library, (its sale is considered to be part of the NYPL’s “CLP,” Central Library Plan)
    c.    Mid-Manhattan (its sale is also considered to be part of the CLP)
    d.    Demolition and removal of research stacks underneath the Central Reference Library at 42nd Street and Fifth Avenue (its sale is also considered to be part of the CLP).
    e.    The NYPL’s “Central Library Plan” (involving the consolidating shrinkage of the libraries noted above)
    f.    The Brooklyn Heights Library (the operations of which function on a combined and integrated basis with the Business and Career Library in the building)
    g.    The Pacific Branch Library at 4th Avenue and Pacific in Brooklyn
    h.    The Clinton Hill Library in Brooklyn
    i.    All other libraries in Brooklyn that the BPL might consider similarly selling or leveraging as a stated part of the strategic plan it published
    j.    Other libraries NYPL might decide to similarly sell and shrink, such as libraries in Harlem, North Manhattan, Staten Island or other parts of Manhattan or the Bronx.

    NOTE: The Central Library Plan involving Mid-Manhattan, SIBL and the Central Reference Library stack destruction involves reducing more than 380,000 square feet of library space to 80,000.  The Donnell sale for shrinkage and redevelopment reduced the 97,000 square foot library to 28,000 square feet of mostly underground, mostly bookless space that won’t be available until at least 2015, eight years after sale of the library was announced .  The planned sale of the Brooklyn Heights Library reduces about 62,000 square feet of space to 20,000 square feet (originally proposed to be only 15,000 sq ft), as much of a quarter of the reduced space being placed underground.

Tish James:  I oppose all of the above library shrinkages and sales, which do nothing to sustain our existing public library system, and only serve the interests of development. I have fought to save and protect branches such as the Brooklyn Heights Library, the Pacific Branch Library, and the Clinton Hill Library (which, although struggling, in currently undergoing renovation).

4.    Many people consider it an indication of a problematic mind-set on the part of decision makers that libraries are being sold for what they believe are very inadequate prices: The 97,000 sq. ft. Donnell Library, much of it recently renovated, was sold to net the NYPL only $39 million while the penthouse in the fifty-story building replacing it is on the market for $60 million and SIBL was recently completed using substantial public funds for $100 million but 87% of it was just sold for $60.8 million.  Are you opposed to the sale and shrinkage of library assets in general or do you accept sale and shrinkage if you consider that ‘an adequate price’ is obtained for the sale?  If the latter; please describe what you believe to be an ‘adequate price’?

Tish James:  I oppose sales and shrinkages when they are sold at inadequate prices, and primarily serve to privatize our existing system. Theoretically, I would consider supporting the renovation of a library space if it did not fall into the above-mentioned category, did not drastically decrease the space of the library, and did not create disruption in community access to the space. I am generally supportive of proposals to build-onto existing library spaces to create housing and other spaces that the City could lease or sell to create profit..

5.    Are you opposed to the sale of library space and assets in general or would you accept the sale of libraries if they were not being shrunk (or were being increased in size) and you considered that ‘an adequate price’ was being obtained for the sale?  Again, if the latter please describe what you believe to be an ‘adequate price.’  Alternatively, if you believe that the presumption should always be that libraries should not be available for sale or redevelopment because of such things as the disruptions and hardship caused and the way a generation of children and other will be significantly deprived of services, please elaborate upon this point of view. 

Tish James:  See response above..

6.    There is now a demand for internet and electronic services at the library.  Although a Pew poll shows that younger readers strongly prefer physical books, ebooks now make up 20% of the book market.  In some cases libraries are the only place to access certain electronic data and services (often requiring assistance of a librarian to do so).  Most people believe that libraries should now provide computer and electronic services (“bridging the digital divide” for those needing such service), which may require even more space.  Notwithstanding, do you believe that there is an adequate justification for NYC libraries to be effecting substantial reductions in the inventories of physical books available for those visiting at libraries, even in the face of increased demand?  Please explain your position.

Tish James:   While it is important for libraries to provide e-books and other electronic data which generally requires less in physical resources, I believe that this goal should not hinder access to physical books. There will always be a number of patrons seeking physical books as they may not have access to (or understand how to utilize) e-readers and other devices. Libraries should have adequate resources to meet both demands.

7.    Do you believe the libraries should be reducing professional library staff, or increasing such staff of at least maintaining the level of such professionals available to assist the public?

Tish James:  Maintaining staff should be the immediate goal while the system examines ways to create income and increase funding. In the future, we should seek to increase staff levels, specifically those professionals working primarily in digital technology.

8.    Some believe that professionally trained librarians are often in the best position to comment knowledgeably on the directions in which the New York City library system is being steered, but actions are being taken to silence such staff and prevent them from commenting, including directives to staff, loyalty oaths and “nondisparagement” (confidentiality) agreements the NYPL wants departing librarians to sign in return for severance.  Do you condone such silencing policies or feel they should be considered to be contrary to public policy?

Tish James:  [answer]

9.    Do you believe that the currently ongoing sell-offs of libraries and shrinkage of library space should be investigated and/or audited by appropriate government authorities?  Please elaborate.

Tish James:  I believe we should make sure as much information regarding the sales of public libraries is available for public scrutiny. I would support (and seek to initiate) an IBO and/or Comptroller audit of the system. 

* * * *
Again, to find out what other candidates provided responses (and navigate to them) go to the Citizens Defending Libraries August 13, 2013 posting.

Response of Mayoral Candidate Sal Albanese to Citizens Defending Libraries Questions For Candidates For New York City Offices

Citizens Defending Libraries is requesting candidates for New York City political offices to answer questions with respect libraries (posted on its we pages August 13, 2013).  Below are the responses to these questions furnished by mayoral candidate Randy Credico.

To find out what other candidates provided responses (and navigate to them) go to the Citizens Defending Libraries August 13, 2013 posting.

Questions and Responses From Sal Albanese

1.    New York City is growing (including in wealth) and public library usage is up very substantially, 40% programmatically and 59% in terms of circulation, yet libraries are currently being funded at their lowest level in years, a drastic reduction from the past.  Do you favor this low level of funding or believe that funding should be restored at least to, or above, the level that libraries were funded in the past?

Sal Albanese: As an immigrant kid growing up in Brooklyn, I spent my summers at the 9th Street library. In fact, it was the public libraries, schools, parks, and CUNY system that helped elevate my family from the working to the middle class. Libraries are essential community institutions, just like hospitals and schools. Great neighborhoods need great libraries, and we risk losing them if we don't fully fund them. Restoring funding is a necessity..

2.    Are you in favor of or do you oppose the sale of libraries, public assets of the library system and the reductions of library space (including such sales and reductions as have been proposed by the New York Public Library and Brooklyn Public Library)?  Please explain.

Sal Albanese:  I strongly oppose the sale of libraries. That is why I'm proud to be the only candidate for Mayor who is not accepting contributions from developers, especially those trying to replace our libraries with luxury condos. I've rallied with Citizens Defending Libraries in Manhattan and Brooklyn, and will fight alongside them and regular New Yorkers in every borough to keep neighborhood libraries open..

3.    More specifically, are you opposed to, in favor of, or neutral about the following proposed library sales, shrinkages and consolidating of library assets (Please explain and amplify your stated position–Note that one of the sales and reductions has already occurred– Donnell– while others are proposed and/or in progress):

    a.    The Donnell Library at 53rd Street across from MoMA between Fifth and Sixth Avenues
    b.    SIBIL, the Science, Industry and Business Library, (its sale is considered to be part of the NYPL’s “CLP,” Central Library Plan)
    c.    Mid-Manhattan (its sale is also considered to be part of the CLP)
    d.    Demolition and removal of research stacks underneath the Central Reference Library at 42nd Street and Fifth Avenue (its sale is also considered to be part of the CLP).
    e.    The NYPL’s “Central Library Plan” (involving the consolidating shrinkage of the libraries noted above)
    f.    The Brooklyn Heights Library (the operations of which function on a combined and integrated basis with the Business and Career Library in the building)
    g.    The Pacific Branch Library at 4th Avenue and Pacific in Brooklyn
    h.    The Clinton Hill Library in Brooklyn
    i.    All other libraries in Brooklyn that the BPL might consider similarly selling or leveraging as a stated part of the strategic plan it published
    j.    Other libraries NYPL might decide to similarly sell and shrink, such as libraries in Harlem, North Manhattan, Staten Island or other parts of Manhattan or the Bronx.

    NOTE: The Central Library Plan involving Mid-Manhattan, SIBL and the Central Reference Library stack destruction involves reducing more than 380,000 square feet of library space to 80,000.  The Donnell sale for shrinkage and redevelopment reduced the 97,000 square foot library to 28,000 square feet of mostly underground, mostly bookless space that won’t be available until at least 2015, eight years after sale of the library was announced .  The planned sale of the Brooklyn Heights Library reduces about 62,000 square feet of space to 20,000 square feet (originally proposed to be only 15,000 sq ft), as much of a quarter of the reduced space being placed underground.

Sal Albanese:  Library usage is up and the services that they provide are in higher demand than ever for seniors, job seekers, immigrant families, and students. When I talk to citizens in Clinton Hill or Brooklyn Heights or Harlem or Midtown, few know that their libraries are at risk. But when they learn about the plans, they're outraged. Like them and anyone using basic common sense, I oppose the CPL and its proposed sale, shrinkage, and destruction of libraries. To be specific, I oppose A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, and J!.

4.    Many people consider it an indication of a problematic mind-set on the part of decision makers that libraries are being sold for what they believe are very inadequate prices: The 97,000 sq. ft. Donnell Library, much of it recently renovated, was sold to net the NYPL only $39 million while the penthouse in the fifty-story building replacing it is on the market for $60 million and SIBL was recently completed using substantial public funds for $100 million but 87% of it was just sold for $60.8 million.  Are you opposed to the sale and shrinkage of library assets in general or do you accept sale and shrinkage if you consider that ‘an adequate price’ is obtained for the sale?  If the latter; please describe what you believe to be an ‘adequate price’?

Sal Albanese:  Library space isn't adequate as it is, so I oppose the sale and shrinkage of any library, regardless of the price.

5.    Are you opposed to the sale of library space and assets in general or would you accept the sale of libraries if they were not being shrunk (or were being increased in size) and you considered that ‘an adequate price’ was being obtained for the sale?  Again, if the latter please describe what you believe to be an ‘adequate price.’  Alternatively, if you believe that the presumption should always be that libraries should not be available for sale or redevelopment because of such things as the disruptions and hardship caused and the way a generation of children and other will be significantly deprived of services, please elaborate upon this point of view. 

Sal Albanese:  As a general rule, I oppose any act that would shrink, destroy, or relocate our libraries away from the people who depend on them most. Instead, I want to see their services expanded. In certain instances, it may be reasonable to sell a library if an equal- or greater-sized and equally-accessible location in the same neighborhood is identified. However, I've seen no such example proposed in any of the five boroughs..

6.    There is now a demand for internet and electronic services at the library.  Although a Pew poll shows that younger readers strongly prefer physical books, ebooks now make up 20% of the book market.  In some cases libraries are the only place to access certain electronic data and services (often requiring assistance of a librarian to do so).  Most people believe that libraries should now provide computer and electronic services (“bridging the digital divide” for those needing such service), which may require even more space.  Notwithstanding, do you believe that there is an adequate justification for NYC libraries to be effecting substantial reductions in the inventories of physical books available for those visiting at libraries, even in the face of increased demand?  Please explain your position.

Sal Albanese:   We need to eliminate, not simply bridge, the digital divide. As Mayor, I'll lead the city to invest in an unprecedented expansion of our broadband network to every home and business in every borough. Doing anything less would deny people access to what has become a basic utility. But until that long-range goal can be accomplished, we need to create digital hubs in every neighborhood so that every New Yorker, regardless of income, has high-quality access to the Internet. Whether it's digital curriculum for school, digital job training or college courses, or ebooks, our local libraries should play that role. But digital materials should enhance, not completely displace, the services that libraries offer. They should supplement printed books and services. To make that happen, our libraries need more space, not less. I don't want to live in a city whose libraries don't have books on the shelves!.

7.    Do you believe the libraries should be reducing professional library staff, or increasing such staff of at least maintaining the level of such professionals available to assist the public?

Sal Albanese:  To accomplish any of the goals I've laid out for our libraries, we need to increase professional staffing and invest in even better training for librarians. Like teachers, nurses, or city workers, they are public servants that deserve respect, fair pay, and support.

8.    Some believe that professionally trained librarians are often in the best position to comment knowledgeably on the directions in which the New York City library system is being steered, but actions are being taken to silence such staff and prevent them from commenting, including directives to staff, loyalty oaths and “nondisparagement” (confidentiality) agreements the NYPL wants departing librarians to sign in return for severance.  Do you condone such silencing policies or feel they should be considered to be contrary to public policy?

Sal Albanese:  Absolutely not. Nothing contributes more to corruption and poor management than when a professional feels threatened or scared to express concerns and report problems to the appropriate authorities. In fact, that kind of courage and responsibility has exposed some of the worst examples of corruption, patronage, and waste in city agencies and contractors.

9.    Do you believe that the currently ongoing sell-offs of libraries and shrinkage of library space should be investigated and/or audited by appropriate government authorities?  Please elaborate.

Sal Albanese:  Absolutely. From my fifteen years on the City Council to today, I have been an outspoken critic of elected officials who pass the buck and look the other way. The City Council, Comptroller, and other elected officials are charged with overseeing all city agencies and services. 

* * * *
Again, to find out what other candidates provided responses (and navigate to them) go to the Citizens Defending Libraries August 13, 2013 posting.

Response of Candidate for Public Advocate Candidate Sidique Wai to Citizens Defending Libraries Questions For Candidates For New York City Offices

Citizens Defending Libraries is requesting candidates for New York City political offices to answer questions with respect libraries (posted on its we pages August 13, 2013).  Below are the responses to these questions furnished by Public Advocate Candidate Candidate Sidique Wai.

To find out what other candidates provided responses (and navigate to them) go to the Citizens Defending Libraries August 13, 2013 posting.

Questions and Responses From Sidique Wai.

1.    New York City is growing (including in wealth) and public library usage is up very substantially, 40% programmatically and 59% in terms of circulation, yet libraries are currently being funded at their lowest level in years, a drastic reduction from the past.  Do you favor this low level of funding or believe that funding should be restored at least to, or above, the level that libraries were funded in the past?

Sidique Wai: No, I do not favor the current low level of funding. On the contrary I would lobby for increased funding for our libraries to meet the demands of our growing population. Our libraries provide the best value for the money and serve as treasured cultural and educational institutions, as anchors of NYC neighborhoods providing enhanced educational opportunities for our young, continuing adult education and resources for research.

2.    Are you in favor of or do you oppose the sale of libraries, public assets of the library system and the reductions of library space (including such sales and reductions as have been proposed by the New York Public Library and Brooklyn Public Library)?  Please explain.

Sidique Wai:  I AM STRONGLY OPPOSED to the sale of OUR public libraries or the reduction of library space for reasons mentioned in my answer above.

3.    More specifically, are you opposed to, in favor of, or neutral about the following proposed library sales, shrinkages and consolidating of library assets (Please explain and amplify your stated position–Note that one of the sales and reductions has already occurred– Donnell– while others are proposed and/or in progress):

    a.    The Donnell Library at 53rd Street across from MoMA between Fifth and Sixth Avenues
    b.    SIBIL, the Science, Industry and Business Library, (its sale is considered to be part of the NYPL’s “CLP,” Central Library Plan)
    c.    Mid-Manhattan (its sale is also considered to be part of the CLP)
    d.    Demolition and removal of research stacks underneath the Central Reference Library at 42nd Street and Fifth Avenue (its sale is also considered to be part of the CLP).
    e.    The NYPL’s “Central Library Plan” (involving the consolidating shrinkage of the libraries noted above)
    f.    The Brooklyn Heights Library (the operations of which function on a combined and integrated basis with the Business and Career Library in the building)
    g.    The Pacific Branch Library at 4th Avenue and Pacific in Brooklyn
    h.    The Clinton Hill Library in Brooklyn
    i.    All other libraries in Brooklyn that the BPL might consider similarly selling or leveraging as a stated part of the strategic plan it published
    j.    Other libraries NYPL might decide to similarly sell and shrink, such as libraries in Harlem, North Manhattan, Staten Island or other parts of Manhattan or the Bronx.

    NOTE: The Central Library Plan involving Mid-Manhattan, SIBL and the Central Reference Library stack destruction involves reducing more than 380,000 square feet of library space to 80,000.  The Donnell sale for shrinkage and redevelopment reduced the 97,000 square foot library to 28,000 square feet of mostly underground, mostly bookless space that won’t be available until at least 2015, eight years after sale of the library was announced .  The planned sale of the Brooklyn Heights Library reduces about 62,000 square feet of space to 20,000 square feet (originally proposed to be only 15,000 sq ft), as much of a quarter of the reduced space being placed underground.

Sidique Wai:   I am opposed to the proposed library sales.

4.    Many people consider it an indication of a problematic mind-set on the part of decision makers that libraries are being sold for what they believe are very inadequate prices: The 97,000 sq. ft. Donnell Library, much of it recently renovated, was sold to net the NYPL only $39 million while the penthouse in the fifty-story building replacing it is on the market for $60 million and SIBL was recently completed using substantial public funds for $100 million but 87% of it was just sold for $60.8 million.  Are you opposed to the sale and shrinkage of library assets in general or do you accept sale and shrinkage if you consider that ‘an adequate price’ is obtained for the sale?  If the latter; please describe what you believe to be an ‘adequate price’?

Sidique Wai:  I am opposed to the sale and shrinkage of our libraries in general. It is a matter of principle for me. You cannot put monetary value on what the libraries mean in the lives of New Yorkers.

5.    Are you opposed to the sale of library space and assets in general or would you accept the sale of libraries if they were not being shrunk (or were being increased in size) and you considered that ‘an adequate price’ was being obtained for the sale?  Again, if the latter please describe what you believe to be an ‘adequate price.’  Alternatively, if you believe that the presumption should always be that libraries should not be available for sale or redevelopment because of such things as the disruptions and hardship caused and the way a generation of children and other will be significantly deprived of services, please elaborate upon this point of view. 

Sidique Wai:  I am opposed to the sale of library space and assets in general. I don’t believe there is an ‘adequate price’ regardless of the bogus reasons/justifications for such sales may be given. I would support measures to enhance and expand existing libraries to better serve the community.

6.    There is now a demand for internet and electronic services at the library.  Although a Pew poll shows that younger readers strongly prefer physical books, ebooks now make up 20% of the book market.  In some cases libraries are the only place to access certain electronic data and services (often requiring assistance of a librarian to do so).  Most people believe that libraries should now provide computer and electronic services (“bridging the digital divide” for those needing such service), which may require even more space.  Notwithstanding, do you believe that there is an adequate justification for NYC libraries to be effecting substantial reductions in the inventories of physical books available for those visiting at libraries, even in the face of increased demand?  Please explain your position.

Sidique Wai:   Physical books are and will continue to remain for many of us an essential feature of what makes a library.  I would support keeping the current space for books and expanding libraries to accommodate the demands of the digital age.

7.    Do you believe the libraries should be reducing professional library staff, or increasing such staff of at least maintaining the level of such professionals available to assist the public?

Sidique Wai:  I support increasing the level of staffing as the demand for help both in print and internet/electronic services increase.

8.    Some believe that professionally trained librarians are often in the best position to comment knowledgeably on the directions in which the New York City library system is being steered, but actions are being taken to silence such staff and prevent them from commenting, including directives to staff, loyalty oaths and “nondisparagement” (confidentiality) agreements the NYPL wants departing librarians to sign in return for severance.  Do you condone such silencing policies or feel they should be considered to be contrary to public policy?

Sidique Wai:  I strongly believe professional librarians should be consulted and their opinion should be actively sought before any decision involving libraries are taken. Needless to say the engagement and the wishes of the citizenry need to be taken into account. I do not condone the silencing of staff for speaking out. It is un-American and is unacceptable.

9.    Do you believe that the currently ongoing sell-offs of libraries and shrinkage of library space should be investigated and/or audited by appropriate government authorities?  Please elaborate.

Sidique Wai:  ABSOLUTELY.

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Again, to find out what other candidates provided responses (and navigate to them) go to the Citizens Defending Libraries August 13, 2013 posting.

Response of City Council Candidate Ede Fox (35th District) to Citizens Defending Libraries Questions For Candidates For New York City Offices

Citizens Defending Libraries is requesting candidates for New York City political offices to answer questions with respect libraries (posted on its we pages August 13, 2013).  Below are the responses to these questions furnished by City Council Candidate Ede Fox (35th District).
To find out what other candidates provided responses (and navigate to them) go to the Citizens Defending Libraries August 13, 2013 posting.

Questions and Responses From Ede Fox.

1.    New York City is growing (including in wealth) and public library usage is up very substantially, 40% programmatically and 59% in terms of circulation, yet libraries are currently being funded at their lowest level in years, a drastic reduction from the past.  Do you favor this low level of funding or believe that funding should be restored at least to, or above, the level that libraries were funded in the past?

Ede Fox: I strongly support fully restoring baseline funding. Moreover, libraries are constantly victim of budget dance, where they are threatened with huge cuts, and end up with only smaller cuts. This puts the lives the librarians in limbo, sometimes forcing them to resign in the face of job insecurity. Librarians should not be treated as pawns- they are valuable public servants..

2.    Are you in favor of or do you oppose the sale of libraries, public assets of the library system and the reductions of library space (including such sales and reductions as have been proposed by the New York Public Library and Brooklyn Public Library)?  Please explain.

Ede Fox:  I strongly oppose the sale of libraries, public assets of the library system and reduction of library space. This is not only a challenge of the library system, but of parklands, NYCHA properties, public streets, and hospitals.

It is shortsighted to sell off these assets. The City might get a quick buck, but we are forever losing public assets and public space. The City has lost sight of a government for the people, by the people and of the people. The only constituents seems to be the real estate market, and the only value is trulia.com. A City is more than just a connection of plots- it is a community of residents who can interact with each other, and build a democracy.

One issue that has failed to get any attention is the loss of space within libraries. In my district, the passport office used to be in an unused corner right by the entrance of the library. BPL chose to move it to a bigger space, but it eliminated the room for the Language Center. This contradicts the mission of the library. Yes, the passport office does bring in money, but the mission of the library is to be a library.

3.    More specifically, are you opposed to, in favor of, or neutral about the following proposed library sales, shrinkages and consolidating of library assets (Please explain and amplify your stated position–Note that one of the sales and reductions has already occurred– Donnell– while others are proposed and/or in progress):

    a.    The Donnell Library at 53rd Street across from MoMA between Fifth and Sixth Avenues

Ede Fox:   Opposed

    b.    SIBIL, the Science, Industry and Business Library, (its sale is considered to be part of the NYPL’s “CLP,” Central Library Plan)

Ede Fox:   Opposed

    c.    Mid-Manhattan (its sale is also considered to be part of the CLP)

Ede Fox:   Opposed

    d.    Demolition and removal of research stacks underneath the Central Reference Library at 42nd Street and Fifth Avenue (its sale is also considered to be part of the CLP).

Ede Fox:   I am opposed to the plan. As I understand it, NYPL wants to demolish the stacks under Bryant Park, ship all the research material offsite to a facility in New Jersey (but promise 24 hour delivery) and convert the resulting open space into a circulating library with Mid Manhattan’s collection, which they want to close/sell as well. The research stacks are an important asset to advanced researchers from all corners of New York City and beyond. Twenty-four hour delivery would unnecessarily impede researchers.

    e.    The NYPL’s “Central Library Plan” (involving the consolidating shrinkage of the libraries noted above)

Ede Fox:   Opposed. We support the improvement of the libraries, but we do not trust that the current administration will do it properly.

    f.    The Brooklyn Heights Library (the operations of which function on a combined and integrated basis with the Business and Career Library in the building)

Ede Fox:   Strongly opposed.

    g.    The Pacific Branch Library at 4th Avenue and Pacific in Brooklyn

Ede Fox:   Strongly opposed.

    h.    The Clinton Hill Library in Brooklyn

Ede Fox:   I was unaware that there was any proposed changes at the Clinton Hill Library. I know it was closed for renovation, but I thought it had opened up again. Please let me know about the current development.

    i.    All other libraries in Brooklyn that the BPL might consider similarly selling or leveraging as a stated part of the strategic plan it published.

Ede Fox:   Strongly opposed.

    j.    Other libraries NYPL might decide to similarly sell and shrink, such as libraries in Harlem, North Manhattan, Staten Island or other parts of Manhattan or the Bronx.

Ede Fox:   Leaning against, but I will have to study the issue more after the election.

    NOTE: The Central Library Plan involving Mid-Manhattan, SIBL and the Central Reference Library stack destruction involves reducing more than 380,000 square feet of library space to 80,000.  The Donnell sale for shrinkage and redevelopment reduced the 97,000 square foot library to 28,000 square feet of mostly underground, mostly bookless space that won’t be available until at least 2015, eight years after sale of the library was announced .  The planned sale of the Brooklyn Heights Library reduces about 62,000 square feet of space to 20,000 square feet (originally proposed to be only 15,000 sq ft), as much of a quarter of the reduced space being placed underground.

4.    Many people consider it an indication of a problematic mind-set on the part of decision makers that libraries are being sold for what they believe are very inadequate prices: The 97,000 sq. ft. Donnell Library, much of it recently renovated, was sold to net the NYPL only $39 million while the penthouse in the fifty-story building replacing it is on the market for $60 million and SIBL was recently completed using substantial public funds for $100 million but 87% of it was just sold for $60.8 million.  Are you opposed to the sale and shrinkage of library assets in general or do you accept sale and shrinkage if you consider that ‘an adequate price’ is obtained for the sale?  If the latter; please describe what you believe to be an ‘adequate price’?

Ede Fox:  I am opposed to sale and shrinkage of library assets in general. The failure to get a decent price for the properties sold shows a lack of appreciation for the library assets themselves, a failure to strongly advocate for the libraries, and a general failure to manage the City under the Bloomberg administration.

5.    Are you opposed to the sale of library space and assets in general or would you accept the sale of libraries if they were not being shrunk (or were being increased in size) and you considered that ‘an adequate price’ was being obtained for the sale?  Again, if the latter please describe what you believe to be an ‘adequate price.’  Alternatively, if you believe that the presumption should always be that libraries should not be available for sale or redevelopment because of such things as the disruptions and hardship caused and the way a generation of children and other will be significantly deprived of services, please elaborate upon this point of view. 

Ede Fox:  I am generally opposed to the sale of library space. If the BPL administration proved itself to be a forceful advocate of the libraries, I would consider some sales, but it would take a few years for BPL to achieve that level of trust.

6.    There is now a demand for internet and electronic services at the library.  Although a Pew poll shows that younger readers strongly prefer physical books, ebooks now make up 20% of the book market.  In some cases libraries are the only place to access certain electronic data and services (often requiring assistance of a librarian to do so).  Most people believe that libraries should now provide computer and electronic services (“bridging the digital divide” for those needing such service), which may require even more space.  Notwithstanding, do you believe that there is an adequate justification for NYC libraries to be effecting substantial reductions in the inventories of physical books available for those visiting at libraries, even in the face of increased demand?  Please explain your position.

Ede Fox:   Circulation of physical books have been going up for years. For many people, the libraries are the best and sometimes only place to get physical books. E-books have become much more readily available, and the library is a great place for Brooklynites to access e-books. We should have both, but I oppose the expansion of e-books when it comes at the cost of reducing physical books.

7.    Do you believe the libraries should be reducing professional library staff, or increasing such staff of at least maintaining the level of such professionals available to assist the public?

Ede Fox:  Librarians are an incredible asset to the public. They have a unique training and experience and I am dismayed that BPL does not do more to give them more say in the administration of the library. I have a deep trust and respect for librarians.

BPL has had a hiring freeze since 2008, except for a few grant-funded positions. This is scandalous enough by itself. To make matters worse, BPL has hired many outside consultants, many making more than $100,000 a year. This is a waste of resources, and it send the message the BPL does not respect its own employees, who know the library better than anyone, to offer creative solutions.

8.    Some believe that professionally trained librarians are often in the best position to comment knowledgeably on the directions in which the New York City library system is being steered, but actions are being taken to silence such staff and prevent them from commenting, including directives to staff, loyalty oaths and “nondisparagement” (confidentiality) agreements the NYPL wants departing librarians to sign in return for severance.  Do you condone such silencing policies or feel they should be considered to be contrary to public policy?

Ede Fox:  I would support requiring BPL to include several librarians and clerks on the Board. They should be involved in most of the important library decision. Even without positions on the Board, the librarians and clerks should be better informed about management decisions. Sometimes they only find out about their workplace from public sources.

It is standard practice in many organizations nowadays to required nondisparagement or confidentiality agreements. I don't think those are the problem. The problem is the lack of trust between the management of the libraries and the people who work there, and that is the problem that I would try to fix.

9.    Do you believe that the currently ongoing sell-offs of libraries and shrinkage of library space should be investigated and/or audited by appropriate government authorities?  Please elaborate.

Ede Fox:  Yes, the current sell-offs should be investigated by the Public Advocate, the Comptroller and the appropriate committees in the City Council. 

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Again, to find out what other candidates provided responses (and navigate to them) go to the Citizens Defending Libraries August 13, 2013 posting.