This week, the Ohio House of Representatives introduced its version of the state budget, which includes cuts to funding for Ohio’s public libraries.
The substitute bill introduced by the House Finance Committee proposes eliminating the Public Library Fund (PLF) that is in current law. Instead of receiving a percentage of the general revenue from sales tax, public libraries would become a budget line item, or lump-sum dollar amount, and funds would be distributed to counties based on population.
The bottom line: This bill reduces funding to Ohio public libraries by more than $100 million over the next two years, with no guarantee of funding after 2027.
Ohio libraries rely on the PLF for significant portions of their operating funds. 48 libraries in Ohio, including Pickaway County, do not have a local levy to supplement funding from the PLF. These libraries will be hardest hit by the recommendations in this budget bill. Rural libraries are also at risk because counties with lower populations will receive less funding from the state. The Public Library Fund currently accounts for 100% of Pickaway County Library’s operating budget. If this budget bill passes, the impact on Pickaway County Library will be immediate and profound, threatening the materials and services you value most.
If you love the library and its programs and services, YOU CAN HELP! Contact your state legislators and tell them:
- YOUR library story.
- NO CUTS for libraries.
- RESTORE the Public Library Fund to the 1.75% proposed in the Governor’s budget.
Our State Representative is:
Brian Stewart (District 12, Finance Committee Chair
(614) 466-1464
rep12@ohiohouse.gov
We also encourage you to share your message with:
Matt Huffman (District 78, House Speaker)
(614) 466-6344
rep78@ohiohouse.gov
The Ohio House of Representatives will vote on this budget on Wednesday, April 9. The time to act is NOW.