Hello friends,
I come to you with unsettling news. Ohio’s libraries are facing an unprecedented challenge in the Ohio House of Representatives, and we need your help!
Ohio House Budget Proposal
Yesterday, the Ohio House introduced their version of the proposed state budget that drastically reduces the amount of funding going to Ohio’s public libraries. The substitute bill that was introduced in the House Finance Committee eliminates the Public Library Fund (PLF) as it currently exists in state law and places library funding into a line-item making it more vulnerable for elimination in future state budgets.
Sub. HB 96:
Eliminates the requirement that a percentage of the state General Revenue Fund (GRF) be dedicated to the PLF.
Reduces state funding for Ohio’s public libraries by more than $100 million over the biennium as compared to the Governor’s proposal.
Creates a new distribution formula that would cut funding to public libraries in 39 counties on July 1.
Ohio's public libraries have had a partnership with the state to deliver services at the local level for almost 100 years and that funding is now at risk. The House’s proposed budget would provide $100.8 million less over the biennium to public libraries than Governor DeWine’s proposal. Making this dramatic shift in library funding at the state level will drastically impact libraries and their services across Ohio.
When: We need contacts between now and Wednesday, April 9.
Who: We need library advocates – patrons, staff, directors, trustees and community partners.
How: Through email and phone calls.
Messaging and Talking Points
Don’t cut my library!
Share what you love about your library and the impact it has had on your life. Personal stories that resonate with legislators need to be told. Everything from early childhood literacy, senior services, tax assistance and summer reading. We need personal stories and testimonials!
Restore the PLF to 1.75%!
- Contact State Representative Nick Santucci Rep64@ohiohouse.gov / (614)466-5441
- Speaker of the House Matt Huffman www.ohiohouse.gov/matt-huffman (614) 466-6344
Feel free to share this information! If you have any questions or concerns please don't hesitate to contact me.
Tell them why you LOVE McKinley Memorial Library!
Sincerely,
Carrie Kibby
Library Director
McKinley Memorial Library
40 N. Main St., Niles, Ohio 44446
330-652-1704 ext. 5 • Fax 330-652-5788
www.mcklib.org