Talking about library service is always a pleasure – even in tough fiscal times!

 

On March 3^rd I presented the State Library of Ohio’s 2010-2011 Biennial Budget Support Testimony at the hearing before the Subcommittee on Higher Education of the House and Finance Appropriations Committee. The hearing provided the opportunity to advocate for continuing support and funding for statewide programs and services that we provide to state employees, libraries and residents. I stressed the value of our partnerships, shared resources, and developing projects that save libraries and state agencies money and have a positive impact for all Ohioans.

 

While talking positively about successes is important, I felt it was also necessary for the legislature to know that budget cuts have taken a toll. The State Library’s budget has seen a 20% decrease in the past two years and the proposed 2010-2011 budget for the State Library is at the 90% level of the previous budget. Our staff has decreased from 130 in 2000 to 75 by the end of fiscal year 2009.   Dramatic cuts, to be sure. 

 

Yet much as libraries across the nation are seeing an increase in usage, so is the State Library.   This is the good news and the bad news: trying to continue offering excellent customer service with a diminishing staff and dwindling budget. 

 

This issue includes articles featuring advocacy for local bond issues and operating expenses and links to national resources. If you would like to share your experiences, suggestions, and resources, please do so at WebJunction Ohio’s Advocacy and Outreach

section.

* Permission is granted for this one-time non-exclusive use of Anita Duckor’s article, “From Awareness to Funding,” in your March 2009 newsletter only.  Please include the credit line: "Reprinted with permission of American Libraries Magazine, a division of the American Library Association."

 

Contribute to The News

Do you have a program or service that would be of interest to our readers? The News, a publication of the State Library of Ohio, welcomes articles submitted by State agencies and Ohio libraries. Articles should be between 400 and 500 words in length and should pertain to the specific theme of the month. The Communications Group retains the right to edit articles as necessary.

Please submit your articles, suggestions and questions to Marsha McDevitt-Stredney, Editor, State Library News through email.

 

 

May 2009	Summer Library Programs	April 15, 2009
June 2009	Regional Library Systems *Highlights *New Initiatives	May 15, 2009
July 2009	Architecture – Buildings & Facilities	June 15, 2009
August 2009	History of State Library	July 15, 2009