I made this print in grassroots support of the public library system of Pittsburgh. The text is specific to Pittsburgh, but echoes the troubles facing libraries throughout the country. Dig the rubylith-cut children's book illustration-style, hearkening back to my own childhood, when I would walk to the library every day in the Summer!
Public libraries are so crucial for folks in all walks of life, and their services are becoming even more crucial with increased unemployment, cuts to youth programs, access to computers and continuing education...Libraries fulfill all these roles and more; for many disinvested communities, their public library branch is a community center.
Carnegie Libraries of Pittsburgh regained their Allegheny Regional Asset District (RAD) funding this year, 70% of the library's total budget. CLP are facing state budget cuts of 25%. CLP still only receives $40,000/year from the city of Pittsburgh, the same amount that Andrew Carnegie stipulated when he created the libraries over 100 years ago!
These severe reductions in funding could mean reduced services, hours, even closing some branches!
What can we do?
- Write letters to the editor of local papers
- Attend city council meetings
- Call RAD and recommend funding restructuring.
- Donate $ to the library (to the development office, earmarked for 'operating')
- Throw a benefit for the library to raise awareness and $!
This design, without the Pittsburgh-specific text, was included in an education-themed portfolio by Justseeds called Liberating Learning.
