On behalf of the Executive Board of the Nassau County Library Association (NCLA), we express thanks and solidarity to institutions that have supported staff during the COVID-19 pandemic. During this difficult time, library users in our communities, colleges, universities, and schools continued to use the critical services that libraries were able to provide. Library staff rose to the occasion in their efforts to meet our user’s information, educational, and recreational needs as they weathered this pandemic. This was made possible due to the dedication of staff and strong commitments of library administrations to continue aiding their communities.
However, our organization’s Officers were disheartened to learn of staff furloughs, layoffs, and salary cuts at Nassau County libraries during this challenging time. We feel those measures undermined our institutions’ ability to provide services to those that needed them most. These drastic measures also put huge stresses on the families that our members support. We strongly urge library Boards to reconsider that approach in the future, or reach out to us for guidance or action, should they meet resistance in their efforts to protect staff. We will always work hard to support our members, their families, their libraries, and their communities. We will support others that wish to do that same.
For staff that have had their employment negatively impacted by the pandemic, we express solidarity with you during your current struggle. NCLA will continue to share employment and professional development opportunities to our members so that they can remain in the professions that we all know and love.
Looking to the future, we strongly urge libraries to keep staff and community safety at the forefront of any reopening plans. The danger posed by COVID-19 is still very real and we hope that institutions will recognize and respect that reality.
Signed,
Nassau County Library Association Executive Board
