By Ivan Pereira
The cash-strapped Queens Library system is getting a boost this summer, thanks to a grant from one of the city’s largest insurance companies.
The New York Life Foundation, the nonprofit wing of the insurance company, announced earlier this month that it was giving out nearly $600,000 to library systems across the five boroughs.
The deal includes a $200,000 award distributed over the next two years for the Queens Public Library’s Youth Workforce Development Program, which not only helps teens get started on careers but also helps younger readers stay busy with books during the summer.
“We are pleased to support libraries that offer a wide range of programs and services that build essential skills and provide access to resources to New York City’s young people free of charge,” Marlyn Torres, assistant vice president of New York Life Foundation, said in a statement.
Teens who sign up for the Workforce Development Program provide homework help and tutoring to children after school. The 100 or so members also receive training for job-related skills, including business etiquette, interviewing, customer service and college preparation.
“Helping students form a strong academic foundation increases their chances for success in their careers and their lives,” Torres said.
The money comes at a time when the library’s financial future is in limbo. The mayor’s proposed budget aims to cut $25.3 million from the Queens Public Library and that would have significant impacts on the services of the various branches.
More than 470 staff members would be laid off, 48 branches would be closed four or five days a week and 13 libraries would be the only ones that would be open on weekdays, according to library officials.
“Their current generous grant for Youth Workforce Development will enable young adults throughout the borough to gain quality job experience while helping students with their homework, providing help to adults using computers and leading science, environmental, arts and educational programs for children,” Diana Chapin, executive director of the Queens Library Foundation, said in a statement.
Several rallies outside library locations have been held and several elected officials, including City Councilmen James Sanders (D-Laurelton), Danny Dromm (D-Jackson Heights) and Jimmy Van Bramer (D-Sunnyside), who used to work at the Queens library as a government liaison, joined in on the protests against the budget cuts.
Library officials have already asked users for donations because it cannot afford new materials for its branches.
Reach reporter Ivan Pereira by e-mail at ipereira@cnglocal.com or by phone at 718-260-4546.
