Metro

$58 million in NYC library funding restored, branches expected to reopen Sundays 

By
Social Links for Carl Campanile and
Social Links for David Propper
Published June 27, 2024, 9:32 p.m. ET

Bookworms are turning the page with this news.

Controversial funding cuts to New York City’s public library system will be restored, Mayor Eric Adams announced Thursday — likely allowing branches to reopen on Sundays.

The mayor and the City Council reached a last-minute deal to include $58 million in previously slashed funding for the city’s three library systems into the 2025 budget.

“In the final hours of negotiations, City Hall relented on many of the Council’s calls for funding restoration,” a source told The Post. “It came down to the wire.”

Initial cuts to the libraries came in November 2023 as the city grappled with the rising costs of the migrant crisis.

In April, Adams had proposed to keep the $58 million for libraries out of next year’s budget, leading to public outcry from many Council members and advocates.

Advocates and city council members wanted to see cuts restored to library services.
Advocates and city council members wanted to see cuts restored to library services. Getty Images

Mayor Adams and City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, no relation, also revealed Thursday another $53 million will be restored to cultural institutions.

“These institutions are a critical part of New York City’s social fabric, which New Yorkers depend on for their children’s growth and the vibrancy of our city,” the mayor said in a statement.

“The budget will ensure these essential institutions will have what they need to serve New Yorkers and attract visitors every day of the week.”

The agreement means library services are open again on Sunday.
The agreement means library services are open again on Sunday. Getty Images

Speaker Adams said the Council consistently fought for funding restorations for libraries as a “top priority.”

“Thanks to the Councilmembers and New Yorkers across the city who fought for this, and to the Adams administration for arriving at this important agreement for the city with us.”

The budget restorations were first reported by Gothamist.

The budget for the upcoming fiscal year is due on June 30 as the mayor’s office and council members sort out the final details of the spending plan that is expected to include $2 billion for public and affordable housing, a source told The Post.