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.
Call Governor Strickland at 614-466-3555 or contact the Governor online.
Contact your state legislator. For contact information please visit www.saveohiolibraries.com or www.olc.org/SaveOhioLibraries.asp.
Sign a petition at the Dayton Metro Library Web site.
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