Libraries are one of the only truly free information resources. Oakland Public Libraries offer literacy training, computer and internet access, and a safe environment for young people. To threaten such a valuable resource in a city plagued by gentrification, gang injunctions, and unemployment is a slap in the face to the people of Oakland.

**Oakland will be left with only FOUR libraries!**

The Mayor's proposed 2011-13 budget impacts the city of Oakland with the following cuts to library services:

· The following 13 branch libraries are scheduled to close: Asian, Brookfield, Chavez, Eastmont, Elmhurst, Golden Gate, Lakeview, Martin Luther King, Melrose, Montclair, Piedmont Avenue, Temescal, West Oakland
· The Tool Lending Library and the African-American Museum and Library at Oakland (AAMLO) will close
· Second Start Adult Literacy will close
· Limited funding for new books, DVDs or other materials purchased
· Reduction of service hours for the Oakland History Room
· Discontinuation of electronic services like downloadable books and databases

http://oaklandlibrary.org/PR/OPL_FAQ_Mayor%27s_11-13_Budget.pdf

THIS IS A CALL TO ACTION! PACK OAKLAND CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS! DO NOT ALLOW THIS PROPOSAL TO PASS!

City Council Budget Hearings:
· Thursday, May 5, 5:30 p.m.
Oakland City Hall, City Council Chambers
· Thursday, May 12, 5:30 p.m.
Oakland City Hall, City Council Chambers
· Thursday, May 26, 5:30 p.m.
Oakland City Hall, City Council Chambers
Community Budget Forums:
· Monday, May 23, 6:00 p.m.
Fruitvale Elementary School
City Council Meetings:
· Tuesday, June 7, 5:30 p.m.
1st Reading of Budget, City Council Chambers
· Tuesday, June 21, 5:30 p.m.
2nd Reading of Budget and Anticipated passage, City Council Chambers

Request to speak. Speaker cards can be requested online one week in advance at: http://www.oaklandnet.com/cityclerk/speaker_instructions.htm

ORGANIZE TO DEFEND FREE ACCESS TO INFORMATION!

Resources:
http://www.facebook.com/saveopl
http://www.saveoaklandlibrary.org/
http://www.saveoaklandlibrary.org/2011-05-05%20presentation%20to%20city%...