1974 - In a story that is, sadly,
continually resonant, the Jefferson Market Library was scheduled to close its door on November 18,
1974. The city was reeling from a fiscal crisis of a magnitude that it
never before experienced. Abe Beame's administration imposed a $1.57
million budget cut which required the closing of Jefferson Market and
two other branches. The libraries had been severely understaffed since
a hiring freeze had taken place in 1971.
The Greenwich Village community responded with great
speed and effectiveness. In the month following the announcement, with
the support of Jefferson Market Branch Librarian Phil Gerrard, the
community staged an active campaign to keep the library open. This
included a massive letter-writing campaign, a nightly candlelight vigil
and 'Save Our Libraries' rallies, including a children's protest. The
will of the community prevailed, and the library remained open.
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