Library Closings Would Harm UB

Public hearings are being held this week to discuss a proposed Erie County budget that would eliminate all spending not mandated by the federal or state government. Among other painful cuts, this "red budget" would force the closure of our county's 52 libraries.

Students and professors have said with one voice that shutting the doors of the libraries will harm both the quality of their work and the quality of their life. County Executive Joel Giambra's political ploy is unacceptable, and his budget must not pass.

The proposed budget is a tactic by Giambra to pressure the state into passing an increase in the Erie County sales tax and reforming the laws that govern its Medicaid mandates. Giambra blames the $130 million deficit on rising Medicaid costs, but instead of prudently preparing for costs that everyone knew would rise, Giambra is threatening our way of life in a despicable and childish staring match.

UB professors bemoan the possibility of libraries closing and its effects on their students. Erie County libraries are an indispensable asset for the UB community. Each library has cultivated a unique collection that differs from the resources available at the UB library.

Books, magazines, DVDs and videos that may not be available here can be found within a reasonable distance. For commuter students free access to the Internet and computers is indispensable. And the library has an unmatched collection of local history and artifacts, including the original manuscript of Mark Twain's "Huckleberry Finn."

UB is also home to a large graduate program in the field of informatics that includes a division of library science. A great number of students in this program intern at local libraries where they are able to learn from professionals and build their skills. It would be a significant loss to the informatics program if these internship opportunities were lost.

Another resource to the UB community, cultural and arts institutions, are set to lose $5.6 million in funding under this budget. The Albright-Knox, Buffalo Museum of Science, Shea's Performing Arts Center and many other theatres, museums and art galleries will suffer.

These institutions are vital to Buffalo's vibrant culture, which has become a vital part of Buffalo's appeal in recent economically tough years. Students in general are fortunate to have a range of cultural experiences at their fingertips. Art students especially will feel the burn as many use these institutions to conduct research, intern and even showcase their own work. Parks also may close or go unkempt as staff is cut.

Giambra's budget would drastically reduce the quality of life at UB and in Erie County. Students would be without valuable resources vital to their education and cultural growth. It is vital that cultural institutions be protected, even if a property tax increase is necessary.

Giambra is responsible for the dire situation we find ourselves in. He blew through a $200 million surplus, cut taxes and refused to find a new source of revenue. His tactic of toying with the cultural lifeblood of our region is dangerous. Giambra should check his ego and collaborate with county legislators and the state on a real solution.