The Friends of the Connolly Branch Library co-President Fran Streeter believes the Boston Public Library (BPL) attempt to fold the popular Homework Assistance Program (HAP) inside a broader after-school program is actually a ploy to kill it.
Streeter said she has no proof, but believes in her “heart of hearts” BPL has already decided to end the program.
“I don’t think they’ve gathered the info,” Streeter said of BPL’s actions. “I think the decision is premature. It doesn’t seem like it was a measured decision.”
BPL spokesperson Gina Perille responded that the library has no intention of ending HAP, and said in fact, it will expand under the new after-school program. She said that BPL recently began a survey that will determine the scope of the new program.
The Friends of Connolly recently sent President Amy Ryan a letter urging the library to continue fully funding HAP. The program provides free homework help by high-achieving high school students for students in grades K-8.
“My thoughts are, if you have a program that works, why would you end it?” said Fran Streeter, co-president of Friends of the Connolly Branch Library.
Streeter, who noted that Ryan has not replied to the letter, said she finds the thought of the program ending appalling. She said watching the terrific program operate can bring tears to one’s eyes.