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Dear Library Supporter,
Ohio Libraries need your help! We need you to contact your state representative today and tell them not to cut library funding.
The Ohio House of Representatives is currently working on the state budget for the next two years. The House Finance Committee accepted an amendment yesterday that eliminates the Public Library Fund and replaces it with a line-item appropriation, representing a $100 million cut to library funding compared to Governor DeWine’s budget.
The unprecedented elimination of the Public Library Fund comes at a time when libraries across the state already saw a $27 million shortfall in state funding in 2024. Ohio’s libraries are currently funded at the same level we were in the year 2000 with no adjustment for inflation. Since then, our community has grown while the cost of library resources and services has increased, and we have evolved to serve our customers.
How does this impact you? At the Alexandria Public Library, we rely solely on the Public Library Fund to operate and supply you with programs, resources, and books that the community relies on. This includes:
Programming for all ages
Purchasing new books and media
Building operations/maintenance
Hours of operation
Eliminating the Public Library Fund and replacing it with the same level of funding that libraries received a quarter of a century ago will be detrimental to the function of libraries.
How can you help? Contact your state representative and Speaker Matt Huffman today. Ask them to restore the Public Library Fund to the amount designated in the Governor’s proposed budget and share your personal story of how the library is important to you, your family, and your neighbors.
You can find your state representative’s phone number and email by searching your home address here. Speaker Huffman can be reached at rep78@ohiohouse.gov or (614) 466-6344.
With Appreciation,
Carrie Strong
Director, Alexandria Public Library
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