Published June 21, 2009 11:45 pm - Area library directors held an emergency meeting Sunday to map out a strategy after learning of a possible $100 million cut to libraries from the state.
Libraries in danger State plans to cut spending by half compared to last year
By WARREN DILLAWAY - Staff Writer Star Beacon
Area library directors held an emergency meeting Sunday to map out a strategy after learning of a possible $100 million cut to libraries from the state.
The potential cut was announced Friday at 4 p.m. when Gov. Ted Strickland put forth a plan to reduce funding by 50 percent from last year.
The library directors said they are already operating at a 20 percent reduction from last year and another 30 percent will be trimmed if the governor’s proposal is approved as part of the two year state budget scheduled to be voted on by the end of the month.
The directors are encouraging all their patrons to contact their legislators and Strickland to oppose the cuts.
“We were trying to respond in way to engage our patrons,” said Kathleen Jozwiak of the Henderson Memorial Public Library in Jefferson.
She said each library has its own board but most are funded predominantly by state money. “Individual boards will have to make the decision on what to do,” Jozwiak said.
“I understand the position the state is in. We can take our lumps along with everyone else but it can’t be 50 percent,” Jozwiak said.
“I was sick to my stomach. It is unbelievable,” said Kathy Pape of the Conneaut Public Library.
“It’s devastating, absolutely devastating,” Pape said.
Pape said the cuts are coming as the needs of patrons increase.. She said the library is being used more than ever for many purposes including access to the Internet and job search information.
“The library reaches all walks of life,” Pape said.
She said some libraries would survive but not in the way they are presently constituted.
“In all honesty it would mean some libraries would close,” Pape said.
Jozwiak said several libraries have small levies to help support their work but most are completely dependent on state money.
Library directors Nancy Shinkle of Rock Creek Public Library, Joe Zappitello of Harbor-Topky Memorial Library in Ashtabula, Mariana Branch of the Kingsville Public Library and Susan Hill of the Andover Public Library joined Jozwiak and Pape Sunday in urging patrons to contact State Rep. Deborah Newcomb and State Sen. Capri Cafaro.
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