Should the Three NYC Library Systems Be Merged?

Last week the Mayor and City Council reached an agreement to restore library funding so that NYC libraries can continue to provide 6-day library service. In the midst of the budget crisis and petition signing, WNYC did a piece titled "One Library System Instead of Three: A Radical Cost-Cutting Solution?". I've heard the merger idea suggested before. What do you think? Should the three NYC library systems be merged?

Freedom of Information and Open Government

Freedom of Information Day is on March 16, the birthday of James Madison, who is "widely regarded as the Father of the Constitution and as the foremost advocate for openness in government" (ALA).

Each year, the American Library Association (ALA) presents the James Madison Award and the Eileen Cooke State & Local Madison Award to "recognize those individuals or groups that have championed, protected, and promoted public access to government information and the public’s right to know" (ALA).

Freedom of Information Day coincides with Sunshine Week (March 15-21), a national initiative to open a dialogue about the importance of open government and freedom of information.

Check out related NYC events going on this week.