Libraries Are Example of Statewide Inequities

The Merced County Library is in trouble. The institution is one of the worst funded libraries in the state, and has had to cut back on many essential services. However, neighboring Santa Clara boasts a beautiful and well funded library with many resources. This is truly unfortunate. Lower income areas of the state need libraries MORE than higher income neighborhoods. Libraries provide a sense of community and safety. The quality of a library should NOT depend on zip code. 

We need to secure more state funding for struggling libraries across California to close this troubling equity gap. Residents of Merced deserve a safe space full of resources where they can learn and grow alongside their community, they deserve what the residents of Santa Clara already have. Our state needs to step in and provide more funding and more resources for libraries NOW! 

Emma Gallegos for EdSource

Cities and towns across California only get the libraries they can afford

By Emma Gallegos, EdSource | 9/20/2022