Dominican Republic public library closures

Public libraries in the Dominican Republic are experiencing a significant crisis, with approximately 60 institutions having closed since 2009. Julio César Morel, head of the National Network of Public Libraries, noted that this averages to one closure every three months. Morel attributed the decline to a lack of awareness among mayors regarding Law 502-08, which mandates the establishment of municipal libraries, suggesting local leaders often prioritize other issues over cultural spaces.

Deputy Ramón Raposo has further raised alarms before the Chamber of Deputies, warning that the loss of these spaces limits educational opportunities and weakens social initiatives designed to prevent crime and drug consumption. Raposo reported that some facilities are being repurposed as funeral homes rather than being modernized with new technologies.

Additionally, concerns have been raised regarding the Ministry of Culture’s budget distribution. For the 2027 fiscal year, while the ministry's budget is projected at RD$4,577 million, Raposo stated that only RD$67 million is expected to be allocated to cultural development investments, with the majority of funds covering payroll and operational expenses.