Petition from the New York Library Association: Please read the information below and consider adding your name to this petition to be presented to Governor Cuomo.
“Libraries are critical infrastructure and cannot operate without library workers who interact directly with the public. With the pandemic disproportionately impacting New York’s marginalized communities, expedited eligibility for vaccination for library workers will allow libraries to resume or expand critical services that New Yorkers desperately need during the current public health emergency.
While we understand the complexity of setting and implementing priorities, especially given the limited supply of vaccinations being sent to our state from the federal government, we know that libraries are key to our state’s recovery.
By including library workers to Phase 1B, they can return to providing the services and programs to their patrons, at expanded capacity, without fear of exposure or unintended spread of the coronovirus.”
Since January 12 when NYLA called for Governor Cuomo and the NYS Department of Health to expressly name library workers in Phase 1B of vaccine eligibility, we have continued to monitor the rapidly evolving situation and advocate for the inclusion of library workers in the state’s distribution plan. More information about these efforts can be found on NYLA’s website here. Show your support by signing an online petition by February 19. NYLA will provide a copy of the petition including a list of signatories to the Governor and the New York State Department of Health as part of our efforts to ensure the safety of library workers and patrons.