Angela Yee Speaks Out on Library Workers Day: Librarians Changed My Life

Guest Post by Angela Yee

Librarians changed my life. Growing up in Brooklyn, library workers guided me toward the books I didn't yet know I needed to read. I learned about womanhood from Judy Blume's Are You There God, It's Me Margaret and the atrocities of racism in Maya Angelou's I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. I fell in love with the cadence of Shakespeare and devoured the teenage drama of Sweet Valley High.
Library workers had an undeniable hand in shaping me into the person I am today: an entrepreneur, a nationally syndicated radio host, and a lifetime, die-hard lover of books, reading, and libraries.
One of the most exciting things about using my voice to strongly support libraries—and to act as the first New York Public Library Ambassador—is the opportunity I have to encourage New Yorkers to explore their local branches and get to know their library workers. Every single day, at all 217 public library branches in New York City including Hunts Point Library, library workers are helping people find books that capture their imaginations, encourage empathy, improve schoolwork, and teach. They're also helping people access the numerous free programs and resources available at libraries—like job training, technology and ESOL classes, early literacy workshops, film nights, community events, and so much more.
I'm more aware than ever of how precious a gift a public library with knowledgeable library workers truly is. Where else in New York City can you find people who will help you—and all New Yorkers—access millions of research materials, thousands of public computers and educational programs, citizenship classes, after-school homework help, and more—all for free?
But right now we're at a critical moment. In recent years, the City has asked libraries and library workers to step up and provide even greater outreach to some of New York City's most vulnerable populations. The libraries have taken up this mission enthusiastically and have partnered with the Departments of Corrections, Homeless Services, and others as we've worked to make services and resources available to every single New Yorker in need.
This important work, however, cannot continue without increased funding. The Mayor and City Council leaders are in the process of making decisions about next year's budget for libraries. In order for libraries to keep their services open to all New Yorkers—from me to you, from kids to seniors, immigrant families, world-class researchers, and the incarcerated and their families—it's paramount that City leaders strengthen funds for the city's public libraries.Please take a moment on National Library Workers Day to sign a letter in support of library workers (then visit a library, get a library card, and thank a library worker in person!). Let City leaders know that the work of library staff matters and deserves recognition—and increased funding.

As a native New Yorker, I know firsthand how library workers help create and fortify communities. I want all New Yorkers to continue having the same opportunities at the public library that I did as a child browsing the bookshelves.Last year, there were nearly 17 million visits to our public libraries. This year, let's help our library workers welcome even more visitors through our open doors. Sign a letter to show your support for library workers and the crucial work they do.
Thank you for joining me today in recognizing the contributions library workers make in keeping our city and all of its communities going strong.