Governor Strickland has proposed a cut to the Public Library Fund of $112.5 million in fiscal year 2010 and $114.8 million in 2011.
Lakewood Public Library depends on the Public Library Fund for approximately 50% of its funding. Under the Governor's proposal, Lakewood Public Library would lose approximately $1.2 million of needed revenue each year.
A cut of such magnitude to Lakewood Public Library’s revenue stream would mean substantial reductions, including cuts to materials purchasing and programs, reduced hours, staff furloughs and lay-offs. With such a drastic reduction in funds, Madison Branch is also at stake.
THERE IS NO TIME TO WRITE LETTERS. THE STATE BUDGET MUST BE APPROVED BY JUNE 30. PLEASE SEND A STRONG MESSAGE: "DO NOT CUT FUNDING FOR PUBLIC LIBRARIES."Call Governor Strickland 614-466-3555 or contact the Governor online. Contact your state legislator. For contact info please visit www.saveohiolibraries.com or www.olc.org/SaveOhioLibraries.asp
Spread the word! While you are in the Tech. Center today, send an e-mail to your family, friends, neighbors and colleagues: "Ohio libraries are in jeopardy. I contacted the governor and my legislators to let them know what my library means to me. Find out how you can help too at http://www.saveohiolibraries.com"
Our sincere thanks to our patrons for your incredible support. Thanks also to our legislators who have publicly shown support for public libraries and who have agreed to do what they can to honor the legislature's commitment to support public libraries with 2.22% of the state's tax revenue.
6/29 UPDATE: On Friday Gov. Strickland released a statement confirming that he intends to keep his proposed cuts to libraries.
The six-member House-Senate Conference Committee that will be voting on this proposal canceled weekend meetings. They are scheduled to meet today. Ask them to stand up for Ohio's libraries (and let them know that you vote) before they reach their decision.
Vernon Sykes: (614) 466-3100 E-mail: district44@ohr.state.oh.us
Jay Goyal: (614) 466-5802 E-mail: district73@ohr.state.oh.us
Ron Amstutz (614) 466-1474 E-mail : district03@ohr.state.oh.us
Dale Miller: (614) 466-5123 E-mail: SD23@senate.state.oh.us
John Carey: (614) 466-8156 E-mail: SD17@senate.state.oh.us
Mark Wagoner: (614) 466-8060 E-mail: SD02@senate.state.oh.us