**link to the list of Libraries & Hours Cut*** http://www.cbc.ca/news/pdf/lib-hours.pdf
Toronto Public Library is the busiest library system in the world. Innovative, highly efficient, and recognized internationally for its outstanding merits. Over the previous decade, library usage has increased almost 30%, and this has been accommodated with nearly 200 fewer staff. Proposed cuts to hours of operation are excessive, and the impact will effect all users, including families, seniors, immigrants, and students. Flexible hours in our public libraries is an "essential service".
The Toronto Youth Cabinet would like to draw attention to the fact that that many students from low-income households will be some of the hardest hit by a reduction in hours. In today's technologically driven world, not having access to a computer to complete homework assignments and search for employment puts them at a severe disadvantage. There is no excuse for deliberately causing those facing economic and social inequalities to bare the highest burden of a budget deficit.
Further, the proposal to eliminate 100 full-time employee positions is quite concerning. Our library system already has a considerably low number of staff. In larger libraries, like Fairview, this will mean far less staff presence in a large building. Some parents are concerned about the safety of their children in such a large building with so little staff supervision.
In the '90s the Province said the community couldn't use school buildings after 3:30 PM, so libraries provide space and resources after hours. Councillors recently had to cut their office budgets by 40%, and many cannot afford constituency offices. As a result, libraries have become the place where many Councillors meet with residents.
Right now, you have the power to increase the awareness of the devastating cuts, and all you have to do is sign this petition! By including more personal information, namely your postal code, this petition is able to reach your Councillor directly.
