The City of Dallas recently announced a proposed budget cut of $4.5 million to the Dallas Public Library (DPL) over the next two years, prompting concerns among residents about the potential closure of up to five library branches.
If implemented, this cut could mean reduced staffing levels and fewer community services for families who rely on their local libraries for vital resources.
According to Manya Shorr, the new Library Director for Dallas, the proposal aims to consolidate library resources rather than maintain multiple branches at lower quality levels.
Shorr suggests that in place of the closed libraries, the city could consider implementing book vending machines or pop-up libraries to serve the community.
Despite the relatively small percentage this proposed cut represents—just 0.02% of the city’s $2.5 billion general fund—the ramifications for the community could be significant.
Libraries serve as critical access points for internet services, homework help for students, cooling and warming centers for seniors, and welcoming spaces for residents without transportation options.
As it stands, Dallas already lags behind many peer cities in terms of public library spending. It ranks sixth among nine comparable cities, spending only $28.90 per resident, compared to Austin’s $67.29 per resident, despite Austin’s smaller population.
History illustrates the challenges posed by budget cuts to libraries. Following significant reductions in the late 2000s, Dallas libraries took nearly a decade to restore funding levels. Unfortunately, inflation resulted in libraries never fully recovering from those financial setbacks, which led to drastically reduced hours and poor attendance.
Dallas City Manager Kim Tolbert has yet to disclose which specific branches might face closure if the budget cut is approved.
In light of these developments, community members are mobilizing to advocate for library preservation. The Friends of the Dallas Public Library (FODPL), a volunteer fundraising and advocacy organization, has been a steadfast opponent of cuts to library funding over the past 75 years.
FODPL has begun organizing community members to attend Budget Town Hall meetings this August. They are also providing free advocacy t-shirts and easy-to-use online tools to help residents contact their City Councilmember directly.
Sarah Evans, chair of the FODPL Advocacy Committee, emphasizes the importance of libraries in promoting equity.
She states, ‘They’re one of the few truly public spaces where everyone—no matter your age, income, or background—can learn, connect, and create.’
Libraries are often vital community resources, offering services such as printing resumes, hosting children’s storytime sessions, providing stable internet access, and serving as cooling centers during hot summer months.
The stakes are high for the Dallas community as budget discussions continue. Libraries are more than just repositories of books; they are integral to community life and cohesion.
Residents are encouraged to take action, attend the upcoming Budget Town Hall meetings, reach out to their City Councilmembers, and stay informed about developments through the FODPL’s updates on social media.
As the discussion around library funding unfolds, it is clear that every voice matters. The preservation of Dallas’s libraries is essential for serving the diverse needs of the community.
image source from：dallasweekly
