Letter: What's next for Ohio libraries?

From Bluffton Public Library Facebook

Dear Library Patrons:

Thank you for your help!

We asked you to reach out and share what you love about your library and so many of you did! We are grateful for your support. Our library (and community) is a wonderful place to be because of community members like you - your calls, emails, letters, and voices make a difference.

What's next?

The Ohio House amended the funding proposed in the budget; however, the Public Library Fund has not been restored. While this is a step in the right direction, the funding for public libraries is currently listed as a line item appropriation in the proposed budget, making it vulnerable to elimination - it also falls $90 million short of the Governor's proposed budget.

The Ohio Senate begins working on their version of the budget next, and we will continue advocating for Ohio libraries.

How can you help?

The best way you can help your library right now is to use it! Talk about the library with others, attend programs, volunteer - stop in with questions or say hello. We will need your stories and voice again as the Public Library Fund continues its journey through the Statehouse. Keep thinking about and sharing with each other and us your stories of what the library means for you, your family, and your community.

With gratitude,

Jessica Hermiller

Director, Bluffton Public Library

For more information visit: https://members.olc.org/.../ohio-library-advocates-thank...