Homeschoolers, library patrons tell Schenectady County Legislature access to materials fell sharply after library left regional system

Schenectady County legislators heard public comment on March 3 from homeschoolers and a longtime library patron who said the county public library’s exit from a regional automation system has sharply reduced access to books, kits and other resources.

At the March 3 meeting, Irma Martinez Guill, who said she runs a local nonprofit for homeschoolers, told legislators her group relied on library lending and program kits but now sees only “about 10 to 15%” of the resources it once used. She said the nonprofit is self-funded and that the loss has made it harder for families to find materials and community programs.

The matter drew support from a young homeschooler, Kiara Coyle, who told legislators she is 15 and said the library had been a venue for community-building: “I really hope that you guys can…