Be an Advocate

San José needs Library advocates.

We invite you to join the advocacy wave that SJPLF is growing. Sign up for our monthly advocacy newsletter, which offers educational resources and notifications about opportunities to advocate for important issues.

Sign Up for Our Advocacy Newsletter

The City of San José is projected to face a deficit of roughly $80 million over the next five years, meaning that cuts to programs supported through the city’s General Fund are likely to be proposed. Nearly 80% of the Library’s budget comes from the General Fund, and most of these expenditures fund staff positions in critical public services.

Together, we can continue to drive positive change and ensure that our Library remains a beacon of knowledge and opportunity for all. See the talking points and contact information below to get started.

Support our Advocacy Work

Talking Points

  • Thank you Mayor Mahan and City Council for your thoughtful approach to crafting a 25-26 Budget that addresses our City’s most pressing needs while confronting the realities of a $46 million shortfall.  
  • As you consider tradeoffs throughout the budget process, keep in mind that investing in Library programs that empower residents to access digital tools, develop professional skills, and use career resources is key to achieving the City’s goals of reducing unsheltered homelessness, increasing community safety, cleaning up our neighborhoods, and growing our economy.   
  • With its educational programs, career services, and technology resources, the Library plays a central role in creating economic opportunity for many of our most vulnerable residents.  
  • Investing in libraries is an investment in San José’s economic growth, equity, and prosperity. 
  • Libraries play a vital role in community safety and well-being by providing safe, inclusive spaces, fostering social connection, and offering resources and programs that address community needs, including those related to health, education, and social justice 
  • The San José Public Library is one of the City’s most used and highly rated public services, connecting more than 760,000 residents to educational programs, workforce development resources, and digital tools.  
  • San José libraries saw a 20% increase in visits last year, reflecting a growing demand for Library services.  
  • As more residents turn to the Library for essential resources, it is critical that Library funding is fully preserved.  
  • The San José Public Library system is already one of the lowest funded per capita in the Bay Area.  
  • Any cuts to Library services would disproportionately affect the residents who rely on them most: seniors, students, job seekers, and families. 
  • Ensuring full funding will allow libraries to continue serving as safe, inclusive spaces that promote learning, economic mobility, and community engagement. 

Contact Your Councilmember

408-535-4800 | mayoremail@sanjoseca.gov

408-535-4901 | District1@sanjoseca.gov

408-535-4902 | District2@sanjoseca.gov

408-535-4903 | District3@sanjoseca.gov

408-535-4904 | District4@sanjoseca.gov

408-535-4905 | District5@sanjoseca.gov

408-535-4906 | district6@sanjoseca.gov

408-535-4907 | District7@sanjoseca.gov

408-535-4908 | district8@sanjoseca.gov

408-535-4909 | District9@sanjoseca.gov

408-535-4910 | District10@sanjoseca.gov

To contact members of the San José City Council by mail, send to:

200 E. Santa Clara St.
San José, CA 95113