The Trump Administration Plans Cuts to Our Libraries

The Trump Administration is targeting our libraries and Muse ums. This includes the African American and Culture Museum in Washington, D. C. In looking at libraries the Administration stated that they are not necessary. This Columnist would like to encourage everyone interested in literacy, culture, and history to let their voices be heard about these projected cuts in our nation. In Buffalo we have some of the most significant and important museums and libraries that add to the history of our city and beyond. I hope people will join me in protesting these cuts.

I have been going to the library since I was ten years old, often walking from the Talbert Mall Projects where my family spent my early years in junior high school and high school. If it had not been for the libraries, I don’t believe that I would be in my position as an educator, columnist, historian and author as I am today. The Buffalo and Erie County library system is vital to all of us, especially our youth who need these services to enhance their education!! Two of the libraries in our community that need our support are the Central Library in downtown Buffalo and the Frank E. Merriweather located at 1324 Jefferson Avenue in the heart of our community. All libraries across the nation need support.

The Merriweather library is the center of community pro grams of all groups which include non-profits, business, his torical programs, youth organizations, book clubs, author visits, computers, storytelling, and a variety of public programs. The library highlights the contributions of the Merriweather Library and is named in honor of Frank E. Merriweather Publisher of the Criterion. On the library website you will find some information about the Criterion newspaper!! I am also honored to have the auditorium at this library named after me, The Dr. Eva M. Doyle Auditorium where various programs are held. There is also the William Miles Room named after the legendary librarian William Miles.

I am calling on the community to join me in protesting any cuts to our libraries. In the coming weeks I will be writing a series of articles on our library system. You can find more information about our 37 libraries at buffalolib.org. You can also call (716) 858-8900 for more information. The phone number of the Frank E. Merriweather library is (716) 883-4418. The manager of the Merriweather is Joshua Mitch. The administration team for the library System is Director John Spears. Joy Testa Cinquino is the Assistant Director for Development and Communications. Dorinda Darden is the Assistant Deputy Director for Systems Services. You can see the other team members on the library website. Stay tuned to this column for more information on this topic!