From: https://nyassembly.gov/write/upload/publichearing/20201023.pdf

SLSA representatives will be presenting Oral Testimony

SUBJECT: COVID-19 and New York State’s Libraries

PURPOSE: To examine the impact of COVID-19 on New York State’s libraries and library
systems

In March, a state of emergency was declared in New York State due to the novel coronavirus,
COVID-19, requiring libraries to close and shift to virtual services. As the state has begun to
reopen, libraries and library systems have resumed providing in-person services again, but with
enhanced protocols to ensure the health and safety of library staff and patrons. The Committee
seeks testimony on the reopening of libraries and the challenges libraries and library systems
have faced due to COVID-19. In addition, the Committee seeks testimony on the critical role
libraries have played during this unprecedented time in ensuring digital equity and access to
information for all New Yorkers.

Persons invited to present pertinent testimony to the Committee at the above hearing should
complete and return the enclosed reply form as soon as possible. It is important that the reply
form be fully completed and returned so that persons may be notified of means by which to
testify and/or in the event of emergency postponement or cancellation.

Oral testimony will be limited to 5 minutes’ duration. In preparing the order of witnesses, the
Committee will attempt to accommodate individual requests to speak at particular times in view
of special circumstances. These requests should be made on the attached reply form or
communicated to Committee staff as early as possible.

Attendees and participants at any legislative public hearing should be aware that these
proceedings are video recorded. Their likenesses may be included in any video coverage
shown on television or the internet.

In order to further publicize these hearings, please inform interested parties and organizations of
the Committee’s interest in hearing testimony from all sources.

In order to meet the needs of those who may have a disability, the Assembly, in accordance
with its policy of non-discrimination on the basis of disability, as well as the 1990 Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA), has made its facilities and services available to all individuals with
disabilities. For individuals with disabilities, accommodations will be provided, upon reasonable
request, to afford such individuals access and admission to Assembly facilities and activities.

Sean M. Ryan
Member of Assembly
Chair
Committee on Libraries and Education Technology