The many shelves full of books let you know that the place is a library.
But many also come to the Queens Center Library for one of the many other programs available.
“The library is the only place that offers all these programs free of charge, so it’s free,” said Manuel Figueroa, manager of training and development.
Figueroa is concerned about the potential impacts of a proposed $36 million cut in the city’s preliminary budget.
“And those who suffer the most are the ones who need the most; immigrants and children, young people,” added Figueroa.
After-school programs, English classes, and citizenship classes are just a few of those programs.
Figueroa.
“Last year we expanded services for students and adolescents in particular. We also gave support to asylum seekers,” Figueroa said.
On Wednesday morning, workers at the library were busy helping asylum seekers apply for New York identification cards.
“Ah, it’s alright at the hostel. That’s the shelter card. Her documents can be passed on to her,” Figueroa translated.
Figueroa occasionally spends part of his time helping to translate for them.
Moy.
“Many families that come to Queens as their new home don’t have the resources to be able to pay, to be able to have those services for their families.”
Free access to computers and internet, one of the services that many take advantage of.
Moy says that the library is an essential element in the daily life of all New Yorkers. She comes here almost every day.
Advocates, library officials and community members protested and testified before the city council on Monday; now they are asking New Yorkers to contact their elected officials.
“Thank you to everyone who supported @BKLYNlibrary, @nypl and @QPLNYC at City Hall today! #NoCutsToLibraries
“You can still add your name and send a letter in support of New York Public Libraries:
“Retweet yes ❤️ libraries! 📚,” read a social media post on the Queens Public Library account.
Thank you to everyone who stood with @BKLYNlibrary, @nypland @QPLNYC today at City Hall! #NoCutsToLibraries
You can still add your name and send a letter in support of NYC’s public libraries:
Retweet if you ❤️ libraries! 📚 pic.twitter.com/9KBI5q0I3z
— Queens Public Library (@QPLNYC) March 21, 2023
“To let them know the importance of these services and to ask them not to make these cuts,” Figueora said.
They hope that the city council and the mayor will negotiate a budget that does not take resources away from the libraries.
