95bFM ‘What we need is investment not abandonment’ — How public libraries will be impacted by proposed budget cuts
28 March, 2023
Interview by Simon Wraight, adapted by David Liwei Shi
National Secretary of the Public Service Association (PSA), Duane Leo, emphasised the importance of libraries amidst proposed budget cuts which could result in them being completely volunteer-run. Photo: Canva.
The Auckland Council’s 2023/2024 draft budget is proposing to cut $36.5m in funding from regional arts, events, and community services, including libraries.
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown has proposed that public libraries be completely volunteer-run as a cost-cutting measure.
National Secretary of the Public Service Association (PSA), Duane Leo, told Simon Wraight on 95bFM’s The Wire that community services such as libraries are important to making Auckland a thriving city that people want to live and work in.
"These services aren’t just ‘nice-to-haves’ like the Mayor seems to believe.”
Leo feared budget cuts could undermine Auckland’s growing population and workforce, as issues like homelessness, unemployment, and a stressed infrastructure could be worsened by reduced council services.
He added that cutting staff would be “incredibly insulting” to librarians, who create a space where the public can access a number of the council’s services and initiatives.
“Libraries at the moment are geared up to service communities, and they provide that support and access in applicable times, whether it be after school or on the weekends for members of the public."
“What we need is investment not abandonment.”
Mayor Brown has also signalled for job cuts within the head office of the Auckland Council. The PSA has urged the council to reconsider this decision.
“Cuts like this never work at a time of austerity, so it’s important to take that into consideration,” said Leo.
Leo encouraged the public to have their say on the Auckland Council’s 2023/2024 annual budget before public consultation closes at 11pm on 28 March.
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